Uwe Rosler says he was glad to get the "real work" started earlier this week when his United side returned to pre-season training at Thorp Arch.

The new Leeds head coach had faced a wait of almost a six weeks to take to the field with his new squad after being appointed at Elland Road back in late May.

Rosler has since added four new faces to the United ranks, as well as introducing key members to the backroom staff, as the club steps up its preparations for the new campaign.

“I’m just excited to be back on the pitch – it’s been a while now,” the head coach explained.

“The first three or four weeks at Leeds were just office work, phone calls and a lot of meetings, but now is actually the real work on the pitch.

“That is where I want to be and where my passion lies. I’m just delighted to work with the players.

“We’ve had a productive three days now and I’m looking forward to the rest of pre-season.

“For the way that I want to play, the boys need to be very fit. We tested them last week on Friday and Saturday.

“A consequence of the testing is that we have to put in the hard work and we have to put the volume in. What you put in now, you get out in the season.

“Every session will be based on football elements but obviously the physical work has to be done.

“You do it with the ball very often but sometimes you do it without the ball. It’s not the nicest part of the season if you are a player, but it has to be done to get a good base for the months to come.”

Rosler also insisted that all players within the squad will be given a fair chance to impress him between now and the start of the season, including those who had limited opportunities last term.

“I’ve worked in this league before and I had the chance to watch players when I was out of work,” he said. “Seeing them now everyday is a little bit different.

“Some players have really surprised me positively. I’m enjoying working with them.

“Me and my coaching staff are here to improve them and the squad so far has put some very good effort in – they know it is important.

“We showed a presentation of how we want to play. They saw the pictures and they understand that the reason we are working so hard is because we want to play that certain way.”

On giving everybody a chance, Rosler added: “I would be foolish if I was to decline certain individuals before I’ve even seen them.

“With me it is always the same – I judge people on what I see on the pitch.

“For example, Nicky Ajose has been terrific. He has been the fittest and the best runner. He’s put a lot of effort in.

“He was completely out of the picture so well done to the lad.

“It’s not only him, there have been a lot of good performances here. It’s very important to give everybody a chance.”