Andy Smith and the rest of the squad are raring to go as Gillingham prepare to host Walsall at the MEMS Priestfield Stadium on Saturday for the opening fixture of the Sky Bet League Two season.
The 24-year-old is excited for the first game, knowing that those sort of occasions have a bit of extra to them. Smith is confident it will carry over into the stands, making for a buzzing atmosphere in ME7.
After the disappointing result against Luton in the Carabao Cup, the central defender understands the importance of responding positively, and he believes they have done so over the past week in training.
There have been many additions to the playing squad, with multiple coming in the defensive area. Smith spoke of the positive impact that they have had over the pre-season, including Liam Gordon, who is returning from suspension.
Looking towards Saturday...
We go into every game trying to pick up three points, but we're really looking forward to it. We have done our work on them and have done our bits and bobs that we think we can hurt them as well. I think that the start of the season always has that bit extra to it, the first game.
I'm sure that once the game gets going we will be alright.
Obviously, the first game of last season we were away, so it's nice to be at home. I know what the first game of the season is like. It's chaotic; there is a lot of tension in the air, whatever it may be. I know that the place will be rocking, so I can't wait for kick-off, and hopefully, putting a good performance on.
Mood in the camp...
We're all really excited. Obviously, we're disappointed with the game on Saturday, and we weren't quite at the races. Luton were a good side, to be fair, but we have put things right in the week in training. The boys are all raring to go.
On the summer additions to the defensive unit...
Liam's [Gordon] been brilliant since he has come in. He adds a real voice into the back line. He has been great.
As have all the lads that have come in. I'm not going to name them all, but I am really looking forward to this season. I am feeling really positive about it.
Conor [McManus] and Sam [Tabares] are both quite new into the building, but from what we have seen in little glimpses in training, they both look like really good players. Hopefully, they can contribute as much as they can. We are going to need everyone this season. As I said, I am really looking forward to it.
