Benny Couto says that hard work is paying off, both collectively and individually.

The whole Oldham Athletic squad has been put through its paces since David Unsworth was appointed manager in mid-September in his efforts to drastically improve fitness levels.

And after their FA Cup penalty shoot-out win over Chester was backed up by Unsworth's first league win at home to Yeovil Town, to move up the National League table at the weekend, Latics are starting to see the fruits of their continuous training ground labour.

"It feels unbelievable. I'm just really pleased for the fans and everyone to get the three points, and it was a big boost for the team to get the clean sheet," said Couto of the win ahead of a quick turnaround with Tuesday night’s trip to Altrincham (kick-off 7.45pm).

"I think the boys worked their socks off and I think we've got to keep building on that and try to get three points and build from there again.”

Couto, who had an impact off the bench in Saturday’s 2-0 win after being a 19th minute replacement for the injured Dan Gardner, added: “The second goal helped us a lot. I felt we were a big threat with crosses coming into the box and I thought sooner or later the goal is coming. And then I thought we saw the game out really well.

"The boys really worked hard for the win."

And there have been positives on a personal note too for Couto, having been brought back in from the cold since Unsworth took charge.

Couto made his breakthrough under boss Keith Curle just over a year ago, but barely featured under John Sheridan with the former boss turning more to experienced players in his efforts to avoid relegation from the Football League.

Couto feels he has been offered a clean slate from which to make an impression on Unsworth and force his way back into the line-up.

"It's been really good for me, I'm enjoying working with him and it's just good to be back out there getting the legs going again and just trying to give my best for the club,” said the 19-year-old, who admitted being overlooked under the last regime affected his confidence.

"It's just one of them, some managers like you and some managers don't,” he reflected.

"Mentally it was one of those you've just got to get through it and work hard in training and hopefully when you get on the pitch you've just got to try your hardest, and I think that's what I did.

"I think any player that has been playing every week then all of a sudden stops playing that has a hard hit on you, but it's gone now.

"I needed a clean slate.

"Now I'm getting more minutes it gives me more confidence.”

He added: “You've just got to keep going and once the minutes start coming you feel a lot better and it's just nice to get back into the game.

"Hopefully it's onwards and upwards now.”