James has rejoined Newcastle after a stint at Wanderers, during which time he was unable to oust Daniel Margush from the starting line-up.

"Daniel Margush was there and he did really well, so I was just training and trying to push him as best I could," the 20-year-old said.

"I think that showed in his performances last season.

"It was a big learning curve for me going down there. Being a proper first-team goalkeeper, being the second-choice keeper ... it was a good experience for me. I think I'm a better player for it today."

Having trained with Newcastle's senior squad since he was 15, the Young Socceroos gloveman enjoyed the change of scenery. But he has embraced the overhaul since returning to his home town.

With a new coach in Arthur Papas, new support staff and an array of new players, James said there was a "very exciting" dynamic about training sessions.

"This change has brought so much energy around the place," he said. "I feel like if we can show what we can do on the park, this town will really get behind the team."

James has played just the one A-League game, debuting in a 3-0 win against Wellington in August last year.

Jack Duncan would appear favourite to start the season in Newcastle's goal, but James and new signing Michael Weier will be given every chance after Papas declared recently he wanted them to "fight for the No.1 spot".

"It's good to have competition," James said. "With myself, Jack and Michael, we all get the best out of each other and we're at training every day pushing each other.

"But only one of us can play. The other two just have to be ready to take their opportunity, if and when it comes."

All three will be eager for an easing of COVID protocols so that Newcastle can start playing trial games, in the lead-up to their November 21 season-opener against Central Coast at McDonald Jones Stadium.

"We're playing some good-quality football matches between ourselves, but there is nothing like playing against opposition," James said.