Foxes chairman, Milan Mandaric, hopes to give the Blue Army another campaign to remember as Nigel Pearson and the players reported back for pre-season training today.

Six new signings, Robbie Neilson, Chris Weale, Dany N'Guessan, Jack Hobbs, Wayne Brown and Astrit Ajdarevic were unveiled today as the build-up began and, following last season's runaway promotion, the Chairman is very positive again.

Mr Mandaric said: "I am very excited. It is a big season, an important season and a very challenging one. We are in the process of preparation and hopefully we will be there to justify the expectations of our supporters.

"The backing of the fans through season-ticket sales so far has been fabulous. I never had any doubt about that after the way they supported us in League One, no disrespect to that division. This year they should get reward for that support as we are playing against some big teams.

"We are in the fourth biggest league in Europe, facing some very powerful teams and we are delighted to be part of it but at the same time we want to compete properly there.

"In my eleventh year in English football, I could say this is the season I am more comfortable than many times before. The main reason for that is there is more stability, a stable manager in Nigel Pearson with stable people around him and last season we picked up that winning mentality and going into next season I am more relieved and relaxed than I have been in the past."

With the three relegated clubs from the Premier League enjoying parachute payments making them among the favourites to return, it is going to be a strong challenge indeed but Mr Mandaric is convinced the Foxes will not be found wanting at this level.

He said: "We want to be competitive and finish as high as we can. Everyone knows the agenda here, to get back up to the Premier League for many reasons, a pride reason that Leicester City should be there and also the financial reasons as well.

"There is enough money for what we need to do. We are in a good financial situation but like many other clubs in this division there is not millions to spare but there is enough to produce a competitive side and go forward."

Check back on www.lcfc.com later today to see images of the players in action on their first day back in training.