Ethan Pinnock's hard work off the field has helped him to get on it.
The 24-year-old is taking his chance to shine following injuries to Adam Jackson and Matty Pearson.
He performed well in his native London, first against Brentford from the bench, and then in starts against Fulham and Preston.
The summer recruit from Forest Green Rovers admits it has been a steep learning curve jumping from non-league football to the Championship.
He feels he has learned some of the ropes in the high intensity of training sessions.
He said: "You always want to be out there playing.
"I had an injury too so that delayed me a bit longer. But earlier in the season the centre backs were doing well so you can't really fault it. You just have to wait for your chance.
"I am getting used to it. With more games I will get even more up to speed. (Championship) players are a lot sharper and the movement of the front players is a lot better. You do notice a difference.
"The way we train allows us to cope with it."
Pinnock admits that most Reds' players are learning on the job.
"For most of us it's our first time playing in the Championship so there are going to be times where we don't have the best period. You have to stick together, be positive and hope things will change," he said.
"The gaffer was a defender and the assistant was a defender so that does really help. They have a lot of knowledge and I feel like I've improved since I have been here.
"Fitness-wise we are as good as anyone. We work really hard day in and day out."
Pinnock's progress has also been noticed by assistant boss Jamie Clapham.
He said: "He has done a lot of hard work, his body has developed and physically he has improved.
"He has put in some good, solid performances."
