Excited midfielder Robert Snodgrass was relishing the prospect of what lies ahead for Leeds United as he returned to pre-season training on Thursday morning.

The squad returned to Thorp Arch to be put through their paces for the first time since that memorable afternoon against Bristol Rovers in May, and Robert and Co are relishing the work that lies ahead.

"It's exciting to come back in, to see the new signings and the lads who we left at the back end of the season," he said. "And it's exciting to see what lies ahead.

"We have a good bunch of lads who look after themselves. The time away is to relax and spend time with your family, but when you come back it's exciting.

"It's going to be a big season for us. Obviously we want to be up there challenging. You saw the teams that were up there last season, so why not us?

"You look at the Championship last year and I think with a good pre-season, with everyone fit and well, we can give it our best shot and be near the top."

Having spent two seasons in League One with Leeds United, the new season represents a step up for the Scot, but he is firmly focused on what he hopes will be a successful season.

"It's a step up," he admitted. "I need to work as hard as I can and make sure I'm in the gaffer's plans.

"It's a new task for everyone and it's how you take it on board.

"You have to realise you are playing for a big football club and realise what a great chance this is to take this club up to the Premiership."

See more from pre-season on LUTV...