An interview with Dick Campbell

Following Forfar Athletic's victory against Preston Athletic, the website team spoke to the manager.

"I am quite optimistic and extremely happy with the level of enthusiasm and how they are going about their work and fitness levels.  For me they are better than last year so that's what these games are all about.

I've been in a lot of pre-seasons in my career. Sometimes you win them all and sometimes you lose them all. What we are geared up for is the Dunfermline game a week on Saturday. But I've got to say that it looks as if there is a freshness about us. There is a mixture of youth and experience. There is an excitement about us. The two wide players coming in; Danny Denholm and Omar Kader look exciting because they've got pace. Then you've got the young laddies themselves; Duncan Reid, Connor and Webbie they add that wee bit. Big Mick Dunlop at the back is only 19 years old. Bearing in mind I'm trying to get everything alright for a week on Saturday.

Honestly, with the new pitch opening up, everybody at Forfar, the fans, everybody, we are all optimistic we are going to have a right good campaign. I'm definitely a million times better off than I was last year in terms of preparation. Anyone who beats us this year will have to work hard."

[We look like we can score goals this season] "Yes, I would agree with that. With the greatest respect to the opposition tonight, Saturday will be a big test up at Huntly. Cove was a big test for us and we came through that with flying colours.

I'm extremely happy. Herriot Watt on Thursday night, Huntly and then Lochore Welfare next Tuesday night. Then we will train on the new pitch next Thursday night prior to the Dunfermline game.

Let's bring it on, I can’t wait for it to happen."