Livingston striker had no doubts the tide would turn after poor first season

Kurtis Guthrie knew Livingston fans would eventually see the best of him - even if they doubted it.

The striker has featured in six of the Lions' seven games this term and he admits his performances have been a marked improvement on last year's showing when he failed to impress with a return of just one goal in 19 appearances - and that lone strike came on his debut.

Boss David Martindale admitted there was a time during the summer when he'd have happily let the 30-year-old leave but Guthrie was determined to prove his worth and is adamant a full pre-season at the club has helped him kick on this term as they prepare to visit Hibs today.

He said: "Last year I didn't have a pre-season and when I was getting up to speed I got injured and then it was just catch-up when we came back from the World Cup break, but as a team we weren't really on it.

“I always knew that if I had a full pre-season behind me I'd be functioning at a different level and that's come into fruition. If things aren't going well the tide always turns. That's football. You can't be feeling sorry for yourself and have a why me mentality. That's not going to get you anywhere.

"When you start doubting yourself, you're in trouble straight away. It was about coming back and making sure I did what was needed in the summer to have a good pre-season and give myself a chance and then have a good, honest conversation with the gaffer. He's an honest fella and so am I so wires won't get crossed. There's mutual respect there.”

While the reception from the Livi supporters has certainly turned, he insists it's the opinion of his team-mates and coaches that matter the most, commenting: "It's nice to get recognition but I'm more concerned about the people in the dressing