Cherries’ defender Steve Cook can’t wait for the club’s first pre-season friendly against New Milton this evening.
Paul Groves’ men make the short trip to Fawcett’s Field to take on the Hampshire club, with two separate XIs set to play 45 minutes each.
The Wessex League Premier Division side are AFC Bournemouth’s first pre-season assignment, and Cook says he’s raring to go.
“It will be really great to get out there again,” the 21-year-old said. “It’s a game that on paper we should win but it’s not a foregone conclusion.
“Obviously we want to win every game we play but it’s all about getting match fitness, staying injury free and getting game time under your belt.
“We’re a squad of different ages, and the lads know their own bodies. We all just need to look after ourselves and gradually put ourselves through the paces.”
The former Brighton centre-back was speaking at the club’s Canford training ground, where the squad undertook a light session ahead of tonight’s game.
“It was good to get the balls out and play some football which we don’t always do. It was tough on the legs but we needed it.
“We also did a lot of tactical and preparation work to make sure we’re ready for the new season. We’ve got to get the basics right so that we’re prepared.”
Reflecting on the squad’s trip to the continent on Friday, Cook said, “I’m looking forward to going to Spain and having some nice weather again. It’s going to be hard work over there but pre-season is vital and we understand that.”