Kai Whitmore is hoping to build on a positive start to life at Newport County and wants to continue impressing ahead of the upcoming League Two campaign.
The Exiles defeated a Bristol Rovers XI 2-0 in their most recent pre-season outing, as an own goal and a strike from Courtney Baker-Richardson saw County pick up their third win of the campaign.
And after a controlled performance in BS1, the Welshman believes he is settling in well which is evident from his early performances in the past few matches.
“To be honest it’s been really easy settling in at the club because right from the first training session the players and staff have been really welcoming,” began Whitmore.
“I think because they have accepted me straight away, it gave me the freedom to focus on my game which has obviously shown these past few games.
"I think Nelson (Jardim) has helped me understand how all of my teammates like to play through the large amount of rotation every game.
“As much as it can be difficult playing with a new team every game, it has allowed me to gel with almost everyone.
“We haven’t played together before but I do know Cameron Evans outside of football, so I'm look forward to seeing how strong our dynamic can be on the pitch.”
Whitmore joined the Exiles from JD Cymru Premier side Haverfordwest County this summer and believes Nelson Jardim’s ideas will suit how he wants to play.
And the midfielder is hoping for a successful first season with the club but is realistic and understands the process will take time.
“I’ve loved playing under Nelson. It’s obvious from the pre-season games so far that he wants us to play more possession-based football which I think will suit my playing style nicely,” he continued
“At the end of the day we’re not going to be playing the most fluid passing play over night because its the start of a learning process and it will take me and the rest of the lads time to adapt to it, but I’m very excited to see what the end of this process will look like.
“With the style of play he’s trying to implement here, I’m happy to play wherever. Whether that’s in a defensive or attaching midfield role.
“I like to think I can play anywhere across the centre of midfield. I pride my myself on working hard and i want to try and help the team be as successful as possible.”
With just over a week to go until the big-kick off in League Two against Cheltenham Town, Whitmore admits that excitement is building within the camp.
And the 23-year-old can’t wait to get going in front of the fans after hearing great things about the Amber Army.
“I’ve not yet played in front of the Newport fans at Rodney Parade but I’ve heard amazing things from the boys who were here last season,” he added.
“Most players' games will be elevated by the fans support and I’m no different. I can’t wait to display my game at Rodney Parade this season.”