Cambridge United midfielder James Brophy targets ‘mentality switch’ after bright start to life under Neil Harris’ management

Cambridge United midfielder James Brophy has conceded that he needs to have ‘a shift in mentality’.

By the 30-year-old’s own admission, his tally of goal contributions since joining the U’s in 2021 has not been of the level expected from a player in his position.

However, the early signs since the return of head coach Neil Harris last month have been positive with Brophy registering assists in the victories over Stockport County and Crawley Town.

“I need to have a shift in mentality,” said Brophy. “The gaffer has spoken about giving us freedom in the final third so I think there definitely needs to be a shift in mentality from me in terms of maybe not choosing the safe option sometimes and pushing myself to take the riskier options.

“There is a shift that needs to happen in myself, to be more positive and maximise the opportunities I get in the games. I was able to do that a bit on Saturday (against Crawley).

“I’m aware that I’ve spoken a lot about it (in the past) so I don’t want to go over it too much, but I just need to take each game, not say too much and try to deliver on the pitch.”

For Harris, the challenge is to get a similar output to the previous two games from Brophy on a more consistent basis.

The U’s boss added: “Why wouldn’t he have that belief? I think I’ve picked him for every game (over two spells). Why wouldn’t he have confidence or belief playing for me? That’s whether he’s playing left wing or right wing or left-back. He needs to have that belief because I let him play.

“His delivery the other day from set-plays (against Crawley) was outstanding and his ability for the second goal was terrific – his bravery, his quality, his pace – it was all there.

“How do I get it out of him? I have to give him that confidence and he has to trust me that I trust him.”

With James Gibbons suspended and Danny Andrew sidelined through injury, there is a chance that Harris could deploy Brophy at left-back for tonight’s visit of Stevenage.

And while it is not his natural position, the former Leyton Orient player would be happy to fill the void.

“I’ve always said that I just like to be on the pitch – it doesn’t matter which position,” added Brophy. “I thoroughly enjoy my football and I don’t like watching.

“Whatever the team needs from me and everyone, there’s a full focus on the team above anyone. Whatever we’re asked of we need to go and deliver.”