A player who will be familiar to all around Vauxhall Road will be Jacques Kpohomouh. The 23 year old who is affectionately known as "Kpog' has loved being back in training after a long close season.
"It feels great to be back in training, seeing all the new faces, new management /staff and some of the old lads too. To be honest, I was itching to start pre-season after such a long time off. I just wanted to get out there and do whatever the coaches had planned whether it was running, ball work or both."
Whenever a new management team joins a club, there is always that uncertain transition period for existing players but for Kpog, it's one he's embraced. "So far it’s been great, the gaffer is sound, he’s always pushing everyone to give 100% in every session especially when we are running and I love it, I can see he’s passionate about his players being the fittest."
Like any pre-season, there's always a great deal of optimism for players and managers alike. Before a ball is kicked, everyone believes this will be their year. With a raft of new signings is Kpog worried about competition for places? "I am still getting to know the new members of the squad, but having the likes of Jake, Luke and Danny around is great but so far, we look like a really good set of lads. There’s definitely going to be some competition for places and positions but that’s what makes it fun. Healthy competition for places will only make everyone work harder. For me personally, I embrace that competition and I will certianly train harder because I want that right-back position secured all season."
Kpog has seen his fair few changes around the ground since signing for the club back in 18/19 but he sees the value in the work renovation works across the club. "The work going on at the ground is great for the club, it’s going to bring about a new feeling which is exciting especially playing of a new 3G surface. Not only that, for the younger lads in the academy and youth system, they will now be able to play on the first team pitch which is a great opportunity for them."
With the season start date pencilled in for 3rd October 2020, Kpog is very much looking forward to get going to help the club achieve its goals. "I can’t wait for the season to start. For me personally this season, I want to make sure as a defensive unit we keep as many clean sheets as possible, and push for promotion/play-offs."
To sponsor Kpog's home or away shirt for the forthcoming season, click here
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