Robinson urges Spartans to “hit the ground running”

Spartans midfielder Paul Robinson has challenged his side to "hit the ground running" as they prepare to return to pre-season training in two weeks.

The former Darlington and Whitley Bay man knows the importance of a good preparation for the new season, something he was denied by an injury whilst with the Quakers last season. However he has high hopes of a more settled pre-season and that is something he is looking forward to.

"I can't wait to get going. I got injured last pre-season and it set me back three or four weeks. Hopefully this time I can get a good run in pre-season, stay fit and hit the ground running when the season gets underway"

Last week Spartans announced their pre-season schedule and that included three fixtures against Scottish sides, possibly the most notable being SPL side St Mirren. Robinson is a relishing the schedule and knows what a strong set of fixtures lie in wait.

"There are no easy games in our pre-season schedule which is great because it's the same in the Evo-Stik League so it gives us the best possible preparations for the season ahead. I've played against Scottish sides before in pre-season and when they come down they always want to win so they will be good tests for us, especially an SPL side like St Mirren"

When the midfielder returns to Croft Park for the first training session he will be joined by four new team mates, although as he revealed there are some familiar faces in the quartet.

"The new lads all add something to our squad so I'm looking forward to seeing them settle in. Obviously I have played with Chris Moore at Whitley Bay and Darlington so know what he is about. Ben Sayer has great technique and is so comfortable on the ball.

Dan Hawkins is someone I have played against and is strong and versatile and whilst I haven't played with Jarret Rivers the lads I know who have say he is a very good player. It's a real boost for the club to add four quality players"