Defender's Dutch courage ahead of Venlo test

 
  • Young defender Josh Pask can’t wait to face VVV-Venlo on Saturday
  • The centre-half has enjoyed his personally impressive pre-season
  • The teenager outlined his aims ahead of the 2016/17 campaign
Dev Squad defender Josh Pask hopes his side can finish off their pre-season tour of the Netherlands with a win against partner club VVV-Venlo.
 
The youngsters have already faced and drawn 3-3 with Eredivisie team PEC Zwolle in Holland this week, and go up against the Dutch second tier outfit on Saturday.
 
And centre-back Pask, who did not feature earlier this week, is looking forward to getting back on the pitch to help the squad.
 
He said: “The last time I played was against Southend and I enjoyed that so I’m looking to get a match under my belt.
 
“It’s a lovely stadium on an astroturf pitch, so it will be different for the boys but we are really looking forward to it tomorrow and we can’t wait to get out there and play.
 
“We’re not used to the surface whereas Venlo are, so we will have to adapt quickly to the turf and get the ball down and play.
 
“Venlo look decent. They have good wingers and a top striker so it will be good playing up against them on Saturday.”
 
Pask captained the U21s for the first time against Peterborough United earlier this pre-season, and is impressing as part of the back four.
 
And continuing to make an impact before the campaign begins is the 18-year-old’s short-term ambition, he explained.
 
“I think pre-season has gone very well for me so far. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it. I was injured for half of last season so I’ve enjoyed getting back on the pitch playing. Hopefully I can push on into the main season.
 
“I want to play as best I can and get as close to the first team as possible. Also a loan maybe would be great for me, but I want to press on and see what the outcomes are.
 
“It’s been lovely out here in Holland. Venlo have put on this facility for us and the hotel has been really nice so the boys have been gelling really well tomorrow and it’s been a lovely experience here. Hopefully we can finish it off with a good game and a win.”