DWIGHT Tiendalli believes he is making progress with every game after admitting Sky Bet League One was tougher for him than the Premier League.

The right back had not played for two seasons due to injuries before signing for United in July.

And a torn hamstring on his second appearance for Pep Clotet’s side proved a further setback.

But he has since played every minute in eight of the U’s last nine games.

While Tiendalli had a difficult start adjusting to life in the third tier, the former Swansea City defender is satisfied his performances are going in the right direction.

He said: “If you don’t play for two years and come back at this level (it’s difficult) because it’s an intense league.

“It’s very physical. In my opinion it’s different when you compare it to the Premier League, so it’s harder for me.

“But I’m getting there.

“Every game you play you take a step closer to where you want.

“I’m not where I want to be, but that’s always the case with me.

“If you asked me at the end of the season how I feel I would always say ‘it can be better’.

“I’m training now normally, so I’m fine with that.”

Christian Ribeiro’s enforced retirement has left Tiendalli, 32, contesting the right back position in the squad with 18-year-old Canice Carroll.

The Dutchman said: “Canice is a really good player and when he gets the chance to play he did very well.

“He’s still young so can learn a lot from the guys in the team, but if he keeps his focus and listens to the senior players he can be a very good full back.

“I’ve played in the Premier League and Europa League, so I know what they ask on that stage.

“I can see him playing there, if he listens and does his thing by playing with confidence.”