CAPTAIN Peter Cavanagh believes January could be the defining month of Accrington Stanley's season.

After two draws with Halifax Town over the Christmas period, the Reds got back on the winning track by beating Canvey Island 2-0 at Park Lane on Saturday.

And Cavanagh is desperate for Stanley to continue their 11-game unbeaten run - in all competitions - well into the new year.

"Now is a big test for us with three or four tough away games," said 24-year-old, who earned his first start since October 1 at the weekend and scored his second goal in as many games, following up his penalty in the New Year draw with the Shaymen.

"We've had the comfort of home for most of December and we're on the road for most of January, which will test our mettle a bit.

"I'm sure at the end of the month we will have a really good idea of where we will be at the end of the season."

Cavanagh played in an unfamiliar right midfield role on Saturday in the absence of injured winger Steve Jagielka.

And his performances and goals could leave boss Coleman with a few selection problems going into tonight's trip to struggling Tamworth (kick-off 7.45pm), who pulled off one of the cup shocks of the weekend with their 0-0 draw at Stoke City.

"I would like to think that's the case," the full back said.

"I've never been one to rock the boat, especially being the captain you don't want to come across as being disruptive.

"But I've made it clear I want to play and hopefully that attitude will stand me in good stead.

"I was pleased to score against Halifax but more pleased to get some time on the pitch. It's been very frustrating because the team's doing well and I want to be part of that.

"It's been very hard to have any argument with the team the manager picks though, because they've been playing well.

"We've got a lot of good players in the squad who all want to play. So it's just nice to get on the pitch and help the team stay unbeaten and hopefully we can keep that going."

Cavanagh has been particularly impressed by loan right back Phil Edwards, who has been keeping him out of the starting line-up.

"It helps that Phil is such a good lad and a good player," said skipper Cavanagh of the Wigan Athletic youngster, who has helped to keep five Conference clean sheets.

"If I thought it was someone who wasn't as good as me (in the side) I would be a little bit more disappointed. But he has played exceptionally well for the last seven or eight games, so I've no arguments.

"He's been a breath of fresh air.

"I can liken him to myself with him coming from a Premiership team, with no airs or graces.

"He's a top player and a good defender.

"But having three good right backs in Phil, myself and Danny Ventre can only be a good thing for the team."

And former Liverpool defender Cavanagh is only too aware of the bonus of having competition in the squad.

"The joke in the dressing room is that if any of the starting 11 slip up there are a few nuclear weapons on the bench that can come on!" he said.

"Football's not an 11-man sport anymore. It's very much a squad game."