AFTER a productive pre-season programme so far, Matt Ritchie says the quality of the 2012/13 Town squad is enough to keep every player at the top of their game.
“It’s been tough as you would expect,” he said. “We’re going to be starting single sessions soon so the harder stuff is done but we have still got to keep our fitness levels up and keep working hard when those single sessions come.”
Town face Swindon Supermarine in their next pre-season fixture on Monday evening and the winger says he is looking forward to another run out at The Webbs Wood Stadium.
“We played them last year and it was a good test against a decent side. It’s a nice surface there so we can go there, try and play football and improve on the last couple of games that we’ve had.”
Looking ahead to the new season, the former Portsmouth man declared that while goal-scoring will remain a big part of his game, the added competition for starting spots means he’ll have to stay at his peak to remain in the side.
“I like to score goals and when midfielders can chip in it makes a big difference to the team as a whole so all the midfield lads will have to chip in as much as they can. It’s important to score goals not just for myself but for the team as well.
“We’ve made some brilliant signings and there is a lot of competition for places now. That can only be a good thing because it keeps everyone on their toes - you’ve got to make sure you perform well in training and in games to make sure you get the starting shirt.”
