What did you do over the summer?

"I went on holiday for a few weeks, watched the World Cup and prepared for the new season. Our season finished earlier than the other league teams so we've been back for weeks.

"I think we were one of the first teams back in the country. I didn't want the players to lose their conditioning over the holidays as fitness and strength is so important at this level. They've all worked hard and are raring to go."

What did you think to the World Cup?

"I thought it was really disappointing - not just because we went out. I just think the tournament will be remembered for all the wrong things. There was too much diving and cheating. It gave completely the wrong image for the game."

How's your pre-season been?

"It's been really good. We have all worked really hard on our conditioning and fitness. We've had a couple of really good warm up games and things look good on the pitch. Everyone at the club is really looking forward to the new season."

Have you brought any new players in?

"We've made a couple of good summer signings to strengthen the squad. We signed Julian N'da over the summer and he looks really impressive. He's from the Ivory Coast and is a terrific athlete.

"We've also signed Sean Doherty from Port Vale - he's a great prospect. We're still looking to make a couple more signings before the start of the season."

Are there any teams you'll be looking out for?

"Not really, we're going to be concentrating on what we have to do. We did well last season and we're going to carry on in that mould and see where it takes us. We'll try and compete against every team we come up against."

Any tips to win the league?

"No. Only that we'll be top half rather than bottom. As I say, we'll be focusing on our games and putting everything we have into each one."

Ambitions for season?

"That's simple. We just want to win as many games as possible and to have a successful season. Obviously we'll be focused on the league but a cup run would be good, financially and for the team.

"We've got a great draw in the League Cup against Notts County so we'll see where it takes us."