RICHARD Jackson is hoping to make the most of an unexpected second chance to earn a contract with Burton Albion.

The former Derby County defender made an impressive debut at right-back in Saturday's 2-2 draw with Rotherham United after signing for a month on Friday.

And Jackson finds himself living out of a suitcase after being called up by manager Paul Peschisolido.

He trained with Burton in pre-season but, at the time, Peschisolido could not find a place for him in the squad.

Now, Ryan Austin's cruciate ligament injury, which will keep him out for the season, means Burton need an additional defender.

"When I was told I wasn't going to get a contract at the start of the season, I rented my house out, so I've been back up in Whitby, where my family is from," said Jackson.

"Now I'm back down here in a hotel! But when I got the phone call, I didn't have a second thought about coming.

"I was here for six or seven weeks at the start of the season, so I know all the lads and that helps.

"I know all the positions and how everyone plays. I know Paul Boertien very well and I'd played with the gaffer at Derby, so he knows what I can do."

Jackson made 127 appearances for Derby, including 98 League starts and, at one time, he and Boertien were the Rams' two regular full-backs.

"I've been playing for Whitby Town for the last three or four weeks," said Jackson.

"Their manager rang me up and asked if I'd help out when I didn't have a club. That's kept me fit, so I was ready to play when the gaffer brought me in.

"I felt fine, although the pitch didn't help. It was like a sponge.

"Now I've just got to concentrate on what I'm doing for the next three or four games.

"I've got to keep fit, keep my head down and not make any mistakes. And then, come January, you never know."