After breaking into the side late last season, Simon Richman, who only turned 18 in June, knows he needs to work harder than ever if he is to become anything like a regular this season.

Despite impressing the manager and supporters alike at the back end of what can only be described as a 'disastrous' season in which the club found themselves relegated, Simon will be taking nothing for granted.

"The fact that the manager gave me my chance during those last few matches gave me a huge lift."

He said: "It is a huge season for me. Obviously I started the last six games last season but I know that doesn't guarantee me a place in the side this season.

"I have got to fight for my place like anybody else. My aim will always be to start in the side, but I have got to learn to work hard for that.

"There are a lot of new faces in the squad and there are more experienced professionals ahead of me and so I have got to prove myself all over again.

"The fact that the manager gave me my chance during those last few matches gave me a huge lift and if I had come in for pre-season training as a young pro without that experience, I think it would have made it a lot harder for me.

"Because I have got that bit of experience, I feel I can now go on and improve my game and try to push for a starting place.

Simon Richman

"Coming back for pre-season training is all about proving our fitness first and foremost. I have been working on getting my speed up because I know that is a weak area of my game.

"I have worked hard over the summer even though I was away from the club and never intended on letting myself go. I came into pre-season strong after all of the hard work I have done."