STEFANI MIGLIORANZI is desperate to repay the man whose faith and backing has sent his confidence soaring through the County Ground roof.

The 24-year-old New Yorker insists Andy King's backing has revitalised him after the disappointment of being released by Portsmouth at the end of last season.

Miglioranzi was discarded by Pompey boss Harry Redknapp and the midfielder admits it was a shattering blow from which to recover.

He said: "During the last few months at Portsmouth it became more difficult because I wasn't getting games.

"I am the sort of person who needs to feel they have the backing of their manager to perform well.

"Andy King has shown great faith in me and I am feeling more confident as a result.

"I have enjoyed my first couple of games although it obviously takes time to adjust to the way the rest of the lads play.

"Consistency is very important and I know that's what the manager will be looking for from me.

"Although I was fairly pleased with the way it went against Wimbledon, I got caught in possession a couple of times and that's not something that makes me happy."

Town boss Andy King said: "Stef seems to be enjoying it here and I think I've already said he has a balance and an awareness that I admire."

But King is not the only one at the County Ground to recognise Miglioranzi's qualities.

His new teammates also like what they see.

Experienced defender Alan Reeves feels the Brazilian-born player has added an extra dimension to Town's midfield.

He said: "We have got a good set of midfield lads here at the club but Stefan has given us something new.

"I think Matty Hewlett is the best in our league at shielding the back four while Steve Robinson puts in a tremendous amount of work over the 90 minutes.

"But maybe the one thing we have lacked is someone who can open up defences on occasions when the game is tight.

"Stefani is a good footballer. He puts his foot on the ball and always seems to have a bit of time and I think he can be a real asset to us this year."

Miglioranzi has agreed a month-to-month deal with the club but there is no barrier to that being re-negotiated should it become desirable.

n Town's youngsters have made an excellent start to the English Riviera Tournament in Torbay.

The competition has attracted 68 teams from all over the world including the Czech Republic and Barbados.

Youth development officer Jimmy Fraser is hoping the club's Under 11s, 12s and 13s can pick up some silverware.

The U11s opened with a 5-2 win over Exeter City, the U12s defeated Czech side VS Etin 1-0 while the U13s thrashed Elite FC 11-1.