James Clarke | We’re looking forward to getting back out there

James Clarke

James Clarke believes Saturday’s friendly at Undy AFC is a great way for Newport County to end a positive two weeks of pre-season training. 

The Exiles face the Ardal South East side at Causeway tomorrow as the club begin their preparations for the upcoming Sky Bet League Two season. 

And after a busy few weeks of training and testing, the defender is looking forward to kicking-off pre-season and hitting the ground running. 

“We’re looking forward to getting back out there on Saturday,” said Clarke.

“It’s been a tough two weeks of training and for us now it’s all about replicating what we’ve been working on in training into a game situation.

“Pre-season is all about fitness levels and that’s certainly the aim of everyone over the next few weeks. We want to get as fit as possible ready for August 10.

“On the whole, training has been really good so far. The boys who were here last year have returned sharp, and the lads that we have brought in over the summer have been really impressive too. 

"For the new signings it's a chance to show the fans what they can do on the weekend and mainly a chance for us all to gel together as a team on the pitch. 

“The mood in the camp has been really positive over the last two weeks and everyone is ready for a big season ahead. 

“Everything for us now is just building towards that first game against Cheltenham.”