The 30-year-old has stepped up following Adam Bogdan’s knee injury and conceded just two goals in three games, helping the Whites to back-to-back wins against Bournemouth and Millwall in the process.
It is a run of games the former Leeds and Preston stopper has been grateful for, and believes he needed, after just two Capital One Cup appearances this season prior to Bogdan’s absence.
Lonergan said: “In the Ipswich game, I just wanted to get out there – it felt like a long time since I played. I’m happy to be playing for however long Adam is out.
“I’m confident in myself, but you need games – it is hard to come in for one and two so hopefully I can get a run.”
If Lonergan continues to show the form he has in the last three outings, he may even force Dougie Freedman’s hand when Bogdan is fit again, though that is expected to be a few weeks yet after Freedman revealed his rehabilitation has been slower than anticipated.
That will suit Lonergan who had a run of five league games in the spring when Bogdan was also in the treatment room and feels like he is benefiting from regular matches.
He also says the arrival of short-term back-up Arran Lee-Barrett has helped keep him on his toes at Euxton.
“The gaffer has signed Arran who I’ve been very impressed with in training and it’s given us a bit more life in the goalie department,” said Lonergan.
“He’s a good lad – he’s similar to me in a way as we’re both old school and a similar age and have been brought up the same way.
“He’s in fantastic shape and it’s good working with him.”