When James Jennings (JJ) made his debut for the Silkmen midway through last season many felt the young defender would be a regular in the Macclesfield side for some time to come.

And a string of assured and energetic performances certainly gave rise to that view. However just two appearances from the bench this season saw JJ head out on loan to near neighbours Altrincham in a bid to get some much needed match practice.

After ten games for the Robins JJ was dramatically recalled by new boss Keith Alexander and went straight into the starting line up for the visit of Notts County last Saturday. And it completed a hectic few days as JJ explained when we spoke to him after training today.

"I all happened really quickly and took me by surprise if truth be known. It's been a frustrating few months with not having played for the team so I jumped at the chance to go out on loan. I was still training at the Moss Rose so I still felt part of the squad, it was just that I was playing my games for Altrincham."

"It wasn't too bad a standard and I certainly have benefited from it both from a fitness and experience point of view. But I was eager to get back and fight for my place. So when the new gaffer called me for a chat and told me he wanted to have a look at me I jumped at the chance."

"I must have done something right as he told me on the Friday after just a couple of sessions that I would be playing the next day. Perhaps an even bigger surprise was the fact I was asked to play in centre midfield. I've only really played at the back, either at centre half or full back, so it was a challenge. But one I enjoyed and just hope I have done enough to get another chance."

"Keith has enjoyed a lot of success in his career and works to a system and as players it is up to us to take and board what he wants us to do and just as importantly deliver on a match day. There aren't many games left so we have to hit the ground running which is why it was so disappointing to concede the goal on Saturday. But to be honest I don't think there was much we could have done as a team to prevent it, as it was a great strike that gave Jon no chance."

"I was asked to put their midfield lads until a lot of pressure and try and break up play wherever possible. As I said it was a new role for me and I thoroughly enjoyed it and was delighted to get through the full ninety minutes, and feel strong towards the end."