Shane McLoughlin says Cambridge United are a club driven by high standards and internal accountability as they continue their season, with the midfielder speaking to Lower Tiers about settling in, returning from injury, and the mentality inside the squad.
The 27 year old joined Cambridge late in the summer, meaning there was little time to ease into his new surroundings before competitive action began.
“It’s been really enjoyable overall,” McLoughlin told The Lower Tiers.
“I signed quite late in the summer, so the season actually got underway the same week, which made things hectic at first but in a good way. I feel like I’ve settled in really well here.”
That immediate exposure to first team football helped McLoughlin quickly adapt to the demands of his new club, while also reinforcing his belief that Cambridge United were moving in a positive direction.
Joining once the season was already under way presented challenges, but McLoughlin felt the quality within the squad and coaching staff made the transition smoother.
“Once I signed and saw the quality in the squad and the staff we have, I was really impressed and eager to get going,” he said.
That momentum was briefly halted by injury, delaying his chance to fully establish himself, but when his opportunity came, McLoughlin made a decisive impact.
Asked to highlight his best performance so far, McLoughlin pointed to a demanding away fixture.
“I’d probably say the Chesterfield away game,” he said. “Going into that match they had only lost one game at home and were on the back of a strong run.”
The context made the moment even more significant, as it marked his first start following a long period out injured.
“It was my first start after being injured for quite a while, and I felt I did exactly what was asked of me tactically, which was a bit different to how we’d played for most of the season.”
McLoughlin capped the night with the decisive contribution.
“Getting the only goal of the game topped it off and made it an all round good performance.”
McLoughlin’s ability to operate in multiple positions has been a useful asset, although he remains clear about where he feels most effective.
“I think my best position is in midfield, where I can use my engine and be aggressive both on and off the ball,” he explained.
Time spent in defensive roles has still played a part in his development.
“Playing as a full back or wing back for an extended period was really enjoyable and gave me a better understanding of what those players want. It’s helped me when I’ve gone back into midfield.”
That experience has fed into his tactical growth under the current management.
“Tactically, I feel like I’m a much more rounded player,” McLoughlin said.
“The demands of the gaffer and the way he wants us to play are a bit different to what I’ve done previously, but I’ve really enjoyed it and it’s been successful so far.”
Not all progress is measured through dominant performances, and McLoughlin highlighted a recent result that demonstrated the team’s mentality.
“Recently I’d say the Shrewsbury game at home,” he said.
“We didn’t play particularly well on the night and everyone knows that, but we still found a way to win very late on in a game that looked destined to finish nil nil.”
For McLoughlin, those moments can be crucial.
“Results like that can go a long way come the end of the season.”
Cambridge United’s response to last season’s relegation has impressed the midfielder, particularly the standards set within the group.
“I think the squad and the club as a whole have responded extremely well,” he said.
“It’s not easy to turn things around quickly after losing a lot of games.”
He believes accountability within the dressing room has been key.
“The group manages itself really well through both good and bad times,” McLoughlin told The Lower Tiers.
“When performances haven’t been up to standard in halves or full games, we’ve pushed each other along with the coaching staff to demand more.”
That mentality defines the group.
“We feel like a team that doesn’t settle.”
Earlier in the season, McLoughlin had to navigate another spell out injured, a period he admits can be mentally challenging.
“Being injured can be a lonely place, but it’s part of being a footballer,” he said.
The process was delayed by early setbacks.
“It took a bit longer than expected, especially waiting for my scan, which was a setback before rehab even started.”
Once underway, recovery progressed quickly.
“Since then, though, I’ve built my fitness back up fairly quickly. Sharpness probably takes a bit longer, but I feel back up to speed now.”
Looking ahead, McLoughlin is clear about his aims for the remainder of the campaign.
“To play a big part in a successful team, keep progressing as a player, and help the team move forward,” he said. “Hopefully, I can do enough to earn another contract as well.”
In terms of the club’s progress, he believes Cambridge United are where he expected them to be at this stage.
“I feel we’re on the path I expected,” McLoughlin added. “Once I signed and saw the quality in the squad and the staff we have, I was really impressed.”
Speaking to The Lower Tiers, McLoughlin’s message is one of belief, resilience and quiet confidence, traits he feels will define Cambridge United as the season continues.
