James Tomkins is hoping to bounce back next season following a frustrating season with West Ham United.
The centre-back was one of the few bright spots of the 2010/11 campaign, although was ultimately unable to force his way into the England squad for the UEFA European Under-21 Championship in Denmark. The Young Lions' loss is West Ham's gain, with Tomkins able to recharge his batteries for the forthcoming Championship challenge.
The 22-year-old insisted he and his fellow young Academy graduates are determined to get the Hammers back into the top-flight at the first attempt.
"It is disappointing the way the season ended," he told whufc.com. "We have got to start afresh next season and rebuilding this club and work hard together to get this club back to the Premier League where it belongs.
"The last few weeks have been tough for everyone but it has been great to see Jordan Spence come on and Jack Collison come back. Now if the youngsters can stay together it will be great for the club. We have got a great chance of getting up straight away next season.
"Whatever has happened, we have got to draw a line under it and it look to the future. We owe that to the fans."
Tomkins also had positive words for caretaker manager Kevin Keen, who he knows well from his time within the Academy and during Keen's time as reserve-team manager, as well as his recent role of first-team coach.
While the club's owners continue their search for a new permanent boss, the No5 said the squad would be more than happy for the former Hammers winger to take on the role full-time.
"Kevin has been excellent for us. He is one person that you can say has been positive throughout the year. All the lads respect him and I have worked with him for a long time now.
"I personally think he would be brilliant for the job. Who knows who will get it but he is a good manager and we all respect him."