JACK Payne cannot wait to experience the Valley Parade roar.

City’s opening-day match-winner was blown away by the noisy support at Shrewsbury.

And that has whetted his appetite for the atmosphere against Barnsley in the first home game on Saturday.

The on-loan midfielder got a taste of it last season when he faced City in Oxford colours – but cannot wait to have that volume of backing behind him.

Payne said: “I’ve played against Bradford at the stadium and seen how good the support can be.

“The thought of playing there for them now is exciting and I can’t wait to get going.

“The fans were great at Shrewsbury. They came in their numbers and made a lot of noise.

“You could hear them in the warm-up before the game and it really got the lads going.

“Even when we were under the cosh a few times, they still made their voices loud and we really appreciated that support.

“Barnsley had a big win and we know they’ve got a good team. It will be a tough test for us on Saturday but one we’re looking forward to.

“Hopefully we can give the home support another win.”

Having netted eight times last season in League One during his loan spells at Oxford and Blackburn, Payne was delighted to get straight off the mark with City.

He added: “I was obviously really pleased to score and get an early goal straight away. But it was more important for us because we were playing so well and deserved to be in front.

“It would have been a real shame if the goal hadn’t come and then the momentum had shifted their way. So, it was good that our start was rewarded.

“But personally, it’s nice to get off the mark and hopefully there are more to come.

“It was important to get off to a good start, especially going away to a team that did really well last season.

“Psychologically getting the first goal and the first win is a boost and we’ve ticked a few markers off the list. The only way is up from now.”

Payne also felt that Michael Collins deserved the winning start and stressed how impressed the squad have been with their rookie coach. His status as the youngest boss in the league is not a factor.

“You don’t think about that,” said Payne. “He’s the coach and we just listen to what he says and will keep doing that no matter what.

“All the lads respect and enjoy working with him. He’s a top coach and it was great for him to get the win.

“I’ve got no doubts about his coaching ability and I’m sure it’s the same with all the players. We’re excited to work with him.

“I’ve only been here a few weeks but I’m sure the manager has been laying down his philosophy to the club since day one of pre-season.

“The core players would have known the guidelines and what was going on. Anyone who has come in since has just adapted to that.

“We’ve all helped each other and communicated well. No matter how many people come in, I think we’ve shown we can gel as a team.

“There was a lot for us to work on from Saturday but also plenty of positives. It’s testament to the lads that we got the three points and still know there are areas to work on.”