Cambridge United goalkeeper Jack Stevens opens up on ‘tough’ period out of Garry Monk’s starting line-up after returning against Barnsley

Jack Stevens has opened on a ‘tough’ period in his career at Cambridge United.

Having arrived as the number one goalkeeper during the summer of 2023, Stevens missed the back end of the previous term through injury and has since been unable to regain his place.

Vicente Reyes has been handed the gloves by head coach Garry Monk, but with the Chilean away on international duty, Stevens was called upon to make his first League One start since March during Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Barnsley.

Stevens said: “ There’s no hiding that it’s been a tough couple of months for me, but I’m experienced and big enough to know that these things happen.

“I’ve just kept my head down, worked as hard as possible and I know that the good times will roll back around eventually – hopefully this is the start of it.

“It’s been tough but luckily I’ve got a lot of good people around me and this group of lads are brilliant, everyone is really supportive.

“I just had to work hard and wait for my opportunity. It’s a long season and things happen. When you’re called upon you have to come in and do as well as possible.”

Stevens impressed during what was just his fourth appearance of the campaign, with his previous three outings having come in cup competitions.

He was particularly key during the second half at the Cledara Abbey Stadium with some smart saves to keep the visitors at bay.

“I’m happy to contribute,” he added. “It was good a point and after the result last week, everyone was really disappointed with that.

“We showed good character and you could see that everyone was fighting.