A RECENT strong block of form has done wonders for his confidence, according to utility Jimmy Toumpas.

Toumpas, who has played nine matches this season, including eight in succession from rounds six to 14, said he still had plenty to learn in the game, but had gained plenty from that stretch – even though he returned to Casey last weekend.

“I’m tracking along OK. The last couple of weeks have been a bit disappointing, individually, but I had a good six-week block, which definitely boosted my confidence a lot, so I’ve got to go back to basics and work on my contest,” he told Dee TV.

“Hopefully, I’ll play some good AFL footy in the backend of the year.”

Toumpas played arguably his best AFL match in the heartbreaking two-point loss against St Kilda in round 11 and also impressed against the Western Bulldogs in round eight and Collingwood in round 10.

He said those particular performances were “hugely” and “massively” important for his development.

“My first two years in the system haven’t been ideal and I’ve learned a lot throughout those two years, but hopefully those six weeks, by playing some good footy against some pretty good opposition will hold me in good stead,” he said.

“I know I can do it and it’s just going to take some time for me.

“Hopefully I’ll crack into the team and cement my spot and we’ll take it from there.”