John McAtee was the goalscorer as we emerged 1-0 victors from a behind-closed-doors pre-season friendly against Nottingham Forest Under-23s on Saturday.

Speaking to the press afterwards, the attacker gave his reaction to the game and how he felt to be back playing.

He said: “It felt good to get back on the pitch, get some minutes and get a goal on Saturday.

“Pre-season's been tough like you expect, obviously it’s been hard because we’ve had such a long period off. All the lads have put in the hard work and it’s been good though.

“I can’t wait for the new season; I can’t wait to get playing but more so I can’t wait for the fans to be allowed back in because that’s what you play for.”

The new first team manager, Neil Cox has been well received by the team. McAtee said: “He is showing everyone how he wants them to be playing and we’re all getting used to it. He’s driving standards."

McAtee is hoping for an even better season than the last in which he scored three goals from 26 first team appearances, after breaking into the side from late January. McAtee said: “My aim is more games and more goals. The (premature) end to last season was disappointing because I was getting a run in. But the goal is to kick on this season and do better.

“As the weeks go on, I’m feeling fitter and better each time. I feel like I could play 90 minutes now.”

Discussing the summer's transfer business, he said: “We’re a young squad but I don’t think that means anything, as everyone’s raring to go and everyone wants to win. I don’t think age matters. I think if you’re good enough then you’re old enough.”

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