Mark Travers has spoken with afcb.co.uk about being back with the lads following the winter break.
The goalkeeper linked up with the team for the mid-season camp in Dubai, having been called up to the Ireland squad ahead of their two friendlies against Norway and Malta.
He admitted how good it was to be back and how much he's relishing working under Gary O'Neil, who last week was confirmed as the club's new head coach.
Speaking to afcb.co.uk, Travers gave his summary of the first full day on tour:
It's nice to get back with the lads. Personally, I had a nice little break away and it seems like everyone is back raring to go.
It's good training out here as it makes it harder for us with the heat. The first session today was really tough and it was just important for us to get back up to speed. It was a good start from the lads and we're really excited for the week ahead.
Then when we come back to England, we'll have more hard work to do ahead of the games starting.
It's great news to see Gary get the job, we had a great run over the last 12 games and before the break. We're looking forward to working with him even more now and hopefully get on another good run starting on Boxing Day.
This week gives us a great opportunity to spend a good bit of time together and chill out in the hotel when we get a chance in between sessions. It's good to be in the same environment together and it'll get us ready for that restart.
I think this week will set us up in great stead for Newcastle in the cup, which is our first game when we come back. We only have a short amount of time before that, so it's important to put the work in.
