TONY McMahon reckons a weight has been lifted as he aims to put the smile back on his face at Valley Parade.

The former Blackpool club captain, who has joined City on loan for the rest of the season, is in the squad for this afternoon's home clash with Oldham.

Like Gary MacKenzie and Francois Zoko before him, McMahon is relieved to be moving away from the strained atmosphere surrounding the Championship's bottom club.

He admitted: "It's been difficult right from the start of the season. Obviously I was the captain, so there was more responsibility on my shoulders.

"It's not been nice with what's happened, losing a lot of games and being at the bottom of the table.

"It's also been hard for my two kids and my wife, going home every Saturday with a face a mile long because we've lost again.

"The kids are running around and I'm just sat on the couch watching TV. That's not really me.

"You do take it home and it's not easy when it keeps happening through the season. This is a fresh start."

Phil Parkinson has been attracted by McMahon's versatility. Though chiefly a right back, the 29-year-old will add a utility option to City's defensive make-up.

McMahon does not anticipate shifting skipper Stephen Darby from his number two role. The loan signing said: "He's been brilliant, from what I gather. He's the captain of the team and he'll play.

"But I'll be happy wherever I get in and play. This season I've played everywhere: right back, centre half, left back and centre midfield.

"I'm here to help this team keep going. They've done well so far and I just want to help out wherever the manager sees me playing."

McMahon has played 51 times for Blackpool – under three managers – since Barry Ferguson brought him in from Sheffield United 14 months ago. His contract is up in the summer and present boss Lee Clark has given no indication about a new deal.

The defender is happy to focus on the final ten games of the season and making an impression with his new club.

McMahon said: "I woke up bright and early with excitement yesterday. I came in to training with a big smile on my face.

"That first day you get butterflies in your belly because you can't wait to get going.

"It's a new challenge and I've got to show the lads I'm a good player and I want to work hard for this team and give my all."