Defender Leigh Bromby admits he is itching to get going again as the return to pre-season training looms large.

The United squad are due to report back to Thorp Arch on Thursday for the start of what will be a busy five-week period ahead of the start of the new npower Championship season.

"It's been a good summer, but I'm looking forward to getting back now," said Leigh. 

"Once the fixtures come out and you look at them, you look forward and can't wait to get going.

"I'm sure the first game against Derby will be a good crowd and hopefully we can start like we did last season.

"There's a few old clubs for me in the division as well. I'm looking forward to going back and seeing a few old faces.

"There's a few Yorkshire clubs as well and there's not as many long trips as last season which is good for the players and the fans."

Four new faces will join up with the squad for the first time on Thursday - including two new defenders - and with the likelihood of more to follow, Bromby is expecting a real battle for places in the side.

"We've made some good signings, good additions, and hopefully a few more will come in," he said.

"Everyone knwe we would strengthen and competition for places is good. It pushes you, and that's what you want.

"If you look at our cup run last season we did ourselves a lot of favours and hopefully we can take the Championship in our stride."

The Championship is proving a tough league to call with different bookmakers touting different favourites such is the competition.

"I think it will be so tight," added Leigh. 

"No one gave Blackpool a hope last season and everyone will be looking to emulate that."

See more from Leigh and from Jonny Howson ahead of the return to Thorp Arch...