Former-Gateshead defender Jon Mellish started his first pre-season as a professional this week but he approached what is proving to be a testing first three days with an acceptance that 'it has to be done' as the lads get on with the build up towards the new campaign in the summer heat.
“I did feel a little bit nervous when I first came in,” he admitted. “It’s the first day [Thursday] and it’s my first move, so it’s meeting a whole new team again. I feel like I’m settling in, I came over yesterday and I just can’t wait to get out training now."
“Pre-season is obviously about fitness, but it’s also about creating team spirit," he said. "Having a good team bond is massive and it can help you go a long way, on top of working hard and the talent in the team. I’ve enjoyed meeting the lads and I just want to get out training and see what it’s like.
“I’ve seen bits of the pre-season schedule and some of the places we’re going and the things we’re doing look really hard, but you’ve got to do it. They’ll all be new experiences so I can’t wait. I know we’re going to the beach on Saturday, I’m not sure what’s in-store but I’m sure it will be hard!"
“It’s all about building up towards the friendly games, then the first game against Crawley," he continued. "I’m really looking forward to the Hibs game because it will be my first chance to play here. I can’t wait to experience it.
“Since I signed it does feel like time has flown by. I’m glad it has because it’s been a bit boring being off. I’ve had a good holiday but I was just itching to get back and get started."
And with the defensive slots around him also being filled, he told us: “To see a player like Byron [Webster] come in will be good for me because I’ll be able to learn from his experience.
"I had that last season with Mike Williamson at Gateshead, so to have that again will only help me and improve me as a player."
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