Joel Nouble unfazed by boos from Livingston fans as striker targets goals

Joel Nouble is adamant he will not be fazed by criticism from Livingston supporters as he backed himself to get back to his best.

The 27-year-old attacker has not scored since August and he was booed by some Lions fans before being sarcastically cheered off when he was substituted in the 80th minute of Wednesday’s goalless draw with St Johnstone.

Asked if he was hurt by what happened, Nouble said: “No. Fans are entitled to their opinion.

“They pay their hard-earned money to come to the game and if they’re not happy with the performance, they’re allowed to voice their opinion. I’ve been through a lot worse than getting a bad reception from supporters.

“I’m just focused on trying to help the team win and hopefully that gets the fans back on my side.

“I’m strong mentally. I’ve been through a lot worse in life than getting a bad reception from fans. Obviously teammates and family will always want to check up on you and see how you’re feeling but I’ve told them I’m fine.

“This isn’t going to define my season or my career. Obviously at the time it isn’t the best but the best thing I can do is focus on the next game.

“I don’t take it to heart.”

Nouble earned rave reviews for his performances last term but has struggled this season as the Lions have slipped to the foot of the cinch Premiership with no wins in their last 11 games.

The forward feels playing wing-back in a 3-5-2 recently instead of on the left wing in a 4-3-3 has taken an edge off his play.

“I might not be on my best form but I’m always a confident person and always have self-belief,” he said. “I’m very confident I can get back to my best.

“That’s something that won’t ever go away, whether it’s fans or media (being critical).

“I’d back myself to overcome any situation. Last year I was playing left-wing and in three of the last four games I’ve been playing wing-back so the opportunities I’m getting in games to show my abilities probably isn’t the same as last season.

“But wherever the gaffer puts me I’m going to try and perform well.”

Livingston – four points adrift at the foot of the table – have the chance to close the gap when they visit second-bottom Motherwell, who have not won since the start of September.

“No one’s got to tell us how big the game is,” said Nouble. “Both teams have been finding it hard to win games.

“It’s a six-pointer because if they win they can extend the gap and if we win we can close it so mentally that can have a big effect. It’s a massive game.”