Boss Ian Murray had commented after Saturday’s draw with Hibernian that Goodwin may only be able to play 26 games this season, but the Republic of Ireland international insists he feels fit enough to play as many as required.

He rebuffed Murray’s suggestions as a wind-up, but hopes to impress the manager enough to remain in his plans.

Goodwin said: “He said that at the start of the season and that is probably what is driving me on. I don’t know if he keeps saying it to wind me up, I’ve no idea, but I did hear him mention that at the start of the season and that probably made me get the bit between my teeth.

“Honestly, I feel fitter now than I did five years ago and I think my pre-season fitness results would go to prove that — pity I can’t get them published actually.

“I feel fit and I know my hair and the way I look probably make people think I’m a hell of a lot older than I am but I have plenty left in my legs and I don’t want to rest, “I don’t want to be left out of the team for any reason whatsoever.” Goodwin played a real captain’s role in Saturday’s game, guiding the younger players through a difficult tie.

He admits his role has increased due to the number of youngsters making their way through the ranks at St Mirren Park, and one he relishes.

He said: “I am obviously one of the more experienced guys and we have got a relatively young squad. So it is up to us I think to be the voice out there on the pitch and get the manager’s message across.

“We have been there and done it all before so it is just about trying to encourage those boys and try and make them do our running for us if you like and talk them through the game.

“They are great bunch of boys, we have got a great mix in the dressing room and young boys who are ambitious and willing to learn and work terribly hard through the week. They probably haven’t been getting their just rewards in recent weeks but it is easy to let your heads go down but I thought today every single person the togetherness was fantastic and that is what is going to carry us on and hopefully get us a playoff place later on.”