RICHARD Stearman says he is repaying Mick McCarthy’s faith in him.

The Wolves defender was hailed as ‘‘terrific’’ by McCarthy after the win over Blackpool.

“I’m absolutely delighted with the way I am playing and as I’ve said before I think I am in the form of my career. I’ve matured a lot more as a player and would like to think I am rewarding the gaffer,” he said.

“He has given me a run in the team and I think I have given him performances. I’ve just got to make sure it continues by putting in the work on the training ground and keep the standards from over the last few months.

“We’ve had a settled back five recently which does help but it’s not always going to be like that with injuries and suspensions and form.