Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher says his success last season counts for nothing in his battle to win a place in midfield.
"The only thing people have said to me this summer is that United missed me in Rome," he said.
"It is nice to hear and I did feel I made a big step forward last season. But sometimes you become a better player by not playing. People notice you because you are not there. It is easy to sit in the stand. I was desperate to be out there."
Undeniably, last season's was Fletcher's best and most consistent.
The 25-year-old made 42 appearances last term and the vast majority of his contributions were telling ones in a season that ended with a third Premier League title if not a place in Rome.
"There are some great midfielders at the club but I managed to get into the team for the start of the season and stay there for most of it," he said.
"My performances improved because of the continuity of playing most weeks.
"Now I feel as if I am right in there competing for a place in the starting line-up each week, although I can't take anything for granted because there is so much competition."