JAMIE Pitman is relishing life at Edgar Street a second time round.

The Hereford United midfielder has banged in six goals on his return to the club after a four year gap and with the Bulls challenging in the play-off zone is delighted to be back.

"It has been brilliant. I couldn't have asked for better," he said.

"I'm playing a lot of games, keeping myself fit and that's made a big difference to my performance.

"In fact it's been one of my best seasons, and with us doing so well in the play-offs its keeping things interesting.

"If it wasn't for Yeovil it would be really tight and a good end to the season but it will be anyway with these play-offs which have made a big difference with seven teams in with a shout."

Pitman has been deployed in a central midfield role by United manager Graham Turner - a position that suits the 27-year-old.

"I have been playing in central midfield which I prefer because out wide you are relying on people giving you the ball," he commented.

"In the middle you are more involved and hopefully I am an important part of the midfield now.

"I'm enjoying it now and it makes a big difference if you are happy and that comes from winning games."

Pitman, who had two seasons each at Yeovil and Woking after leaving Hereford in 1998, believes the standard of the Conference has continued to improve and that has benefited teams like Turner's who are not the biggest of sides.

"I think the Conference has changed with the standard improving due to the foreigners coming in and pushing players down the leagues.

"Sides can't get away with just being big and physical now they have to be able to play a bit as well."