Defender Alex Bruce says Leeds United's pre-season regime ahead of the new campaign is one of the most demanding he has ever faced.

The squad reported back to Thorp Arch last midweek and have been undergoing double and triple sessions in readiness for the trip to Scotland next week when the first games take place.

"It's been a very tough week," said Alex.

"I'd go as far as saying it's one of the toughest I've ever had in terms of running. But I think everyone has come back in good nick and it's been enjoyable. We had a long break but everyone is keen to get into it and get a base for the start of the season."

Training has varied from sprints and shuttles, to ball work, to time in the swimming pool. Also on the list is the dreaded 4 x 1000-metre running which is notoriously challenging.

"The long distance running, the 1000 metres, that's the hardest one for me," said Alex. "Different things suit different players. That's the toughest for me though.

"When you do put the hard work in you would rather it be tougher now. It could give you that advantage over the opposition at the start of the season. You don't want injuries either and it can put you in good stead."

Alex made 25 appearances for United last season and was a regular during the middle period of the campaign. Having signed from Ipswich Town last July, the 26-year-old admits he is a targeting a regular spot in Simon Grayson's team this term.

"Hopefully I can be more consistent in the starting XI and if I am I'll do my best to keep my place," said Alex.

"I'm very determined. No player wants to work Monday to Friday and not play on a Saturday. You work hard in pre season to stake your claim for the first game of the season and that's my aim."

Having come within a whisker of securing a Play-Off place last term, Alex insists the belief is there that United can go one better this season.

"As an individual and as team we were disappointed to be in the Play-Offs as long as we were and then not finish there, but hopefully we can put it right this season," he said.

"The Championship is always a tough division. At the start of the season you look at who's going to do what and it's hard to put your finger on it. West Ham will be looking to do well, but we are one of the biggest clubs in the Championship and we have the players to step up."