Robert Snodgrass is relishing the step-up in Leeds United's pre-season programme in Ireland this week.

The Scotsman played 45 minutes at York City on Sunday, and will step up further this week as United take on Shelbourne and Glentoran during the stay in Ireland.

Leeds return for pre-season games against Grimsby, Premiership duo Blackburn and Burnley, and newly-relegated Newcastle United, and Robert reckons pre-season will be the perfect test.

"Pre-season will test us," he told LUTV. "We'll see where we stand.

"There's no better way to test yourselves than in some of these big games.

"We do have the Premiership sides, and Newcastle, but these will be tough games in Ireland as well.

"They're all hard games and you have to try to impress.

"The gaffer's got a starting line-up to put out against Exeter on August 8 and we all have to be in tip-top shape."

The 21-year-old is taking part in his first full pre-season with the club after joining from Livingston at the end of July last year.

He made a big impression on his first season and it was no surprise to see the media speculating about potential interest in him during the summer months.

But Snoddy, who won the Regional Members Clubs Player of the Year last season, is simply focused on helping Simon Grayson's side finally escape League One.

"I love it here," he added to LUTV. 

"I've two years left on my contract and I really enjoy it. The fans are superb and it's a joy to to play for such a massive support.

"There is pressure for these fans and we have to put a show on.

"We did it at home last season and we have to go from the very first whistle this season."