Rob Street has been enjoying the opportunity to test himself in the Sky Bet Championship, with the forward determined to build on the positives of City's opening months in the second tier.
The Imps travel to face Queens Park Rangers on Saturday, looking to respond positively after a defeat to Watford on Tuesday night. For Street, it is another opportunity to measure himself against some of the division's best defenders and help City get back to winning ways.
Having played a key role in City's promotion-winning campaign last season, the forward has experienced first-hand the difference between League One and the Championship, but believes the squad have already shown they belong at this level.
He said: “There's no denying there's a lot more quality all over the pitch but I think we've had some really good performances that have proved we can compete at this level and give anyone a game.
“It's probably the fine margins in games that we need to do slightly better on. Looking at the start we've had, though, there's been a lot of positives to take from it, and it's something we want to continue building on.”
For attacking players, that step up brings its own particular challenges. Street has faced a different calibre of defender this season, with the Championship offering a variety of physical, technical and tactical tests every week.
He continued: “I think the defenders are a lot more of a complete package at this level. They're all good on the ball, they're big, physical and strong, and they've all got different strengths.
“It's a lot more testing for front players. You're not just relying on physicality because they're good on the ball as well, and they can hurt you in that manner. There are lots of different tests every week, but it's a challenge I've enjoyed.”
Away trips are another part of the Championship experience, with City's players preparing for another overnight stay ahead of Saturday's meeting with QPR.
Despite the demands of a busy schedule and the travelling involved, Street says the togetherness within the group helps make those journeys an enjoyable part of life on the road.
“Everyone's so well connected and we've got such a tight-knit group. Our away days are always good fun. We have a laugh and a joke on the way down on the bus and, when we get to the hotel, there's usually a good game of something going on in the evening.
“I get involved in the card games! There's lots of different things going on, everyone's having a laugh, and then you try to get an early night and get your mind ready for the next game.”
The next test comes at Matrade Loftus Road, where City will face another side boasting plenty of quality across the pitch. Street knows the challenge that awaits but is focused on ensuring the Imps produce a performance they can be proud of.
“Every week is a big game against big opposition. They're another good team with good players all over the pitch, so we've got to be ready.
“We want to go there, play better than we have in the last couple of games and try to put in a positive performance.”
City will once again be backed by a strong travelling contingent, with the allocation for Saturday's fixture selling out well in advance. It is a level of support that has not gone unnoticed by the players, particularly given the demands of following the team across the country.
“There's never any doubt about the passion and backing we get from the fans. We're forever grateful for the support they show us every single week.
“Whether it's a Saturday, a Tuesday or whatever the week looks like, they come in their numbers and always support us. We're really thankful for them.”
