Duo: We'll Be Better

Vladimir Labant and Tomas Repka both aim to show the fans this season: you ain't seen nothing yet!

So says goalkeeping coach Ludek Miklosko, who of course can communicate to them freely in his - and their - native Czech.

"I think they enjoyed their holidays but are already looking forward to the new season," says Ludo.

"Vlado can't wait, because when he came he was always telling me he did not feel 100% fit, but now he will have the chance to start with everyone from the beginning, have a good pre-season and hopefully get in some good performances."

Indeed, Vladimir is looking forward to doing battle with the man he was ostensibly brought in to replace - Nigel Winterburn.

In the end, a change of heart on Glenn Roeder's part - not to mention Nigel's keenness to stay, despite a pay cut - means the two will once more be going head to head.

Says Ludo: "He said 'that's football - it is great to have competition at the club' - he took it very well.

As for Tomas, who signed just after the season started, Ludo says: "When the season finished he asked me what he should be doing in the holiday time, so he put a programme together - he was working over the holiday.

"He was quite happy with last season, but he hopes next season will be even better for him, and that there will be more to come."