JAMES Meredith has stressed that there are no guaranteed places in the City side.

Full back Meredith has regained a starting spot since Andrew Davies broke his arm – and played in central midfield in the Johnstone's Paint Trophy loss at Oldham.

But with Christopher Routis making an impressive defensive debut on Tuesday, the Australian's position could already be under threat.

Meredith feels there is strong competition for places even though the numbers at Phil Parkinson's disposal are not large.

He said: "This squad has got good players who can play in multiple positions. You can't really afford to not play well or give it your all because there's someone who definitely will.

"I'm enjoying it at the moment. Obviously it's really unfortunate with Andrew Davies because he's such a big part of the team. He's a leader and everyone looks up to him.

"I've had to come in and hopefully take my opportunity by doing my best. You've got to be professional about it and do as well as you can to win a spot in the team."

Despite the JP Trophy exit, it has been a positive opening month for City, who head into back-to-back home games just two points behind League One leaders Peterborough.

Meredith has been impressed with how quickly the new-look team has bedded in with the summer signings and a change of system.

"You've got to be able to adapt to different positions and different players," he said.

"I think we've started well. A lot of players are new and we've got to really nail down how we play as a team and how we work together.

"Jason Kennedy is a good example. He has got his head down and is like a machine at the moment.

"We've got some really gifted players in midfield. They are all sharp on the ball and honest lads who will work hard."

Alan Sheehan's arrival pushed Meredith down the pecking order but the pair have worked alongside each other since losing Davies.

Meredith said: "Alan's a very good player but they are two different types.

"Alan is probably more technically gifted but he reads the game as well. He is good in both positions at full back and centre half.

"Dava is more full throttle, taking people out with headers and things like that."

City are still talking with Filipe Morais about another short-term deal. The midfielder's original agreement ran out on Sunday, so he was not involved in midweek.

Third-choice goalkeeper Matt Urwin has signed for a year with an option for the club to extend it for next season.

The 20-year-old former Blackburn reserve has been with City on non-contract terms up to now.