James Buoyed By Foxes Progress In Austria
- Matty James is pleased to be back in the thick of things for Leicester City this summer
- The Foxes midfielder has returned to the Club after a successful loan spell with Barnsley
- James is with City in Austria having recovered from a prolonged spell on the sidelines
The midfielder endured a lengthy injury lay-off before embarking on a successful loan spell at Sky Bet Championship side Barnsley last season. James has now joined Craig Shakespeare’s squad in Verden ahead of the Premier League Asia Trophy clash with West Bromwich Albion next Wednesday.
In humid conditions, the Foxes have worked tirelessly to get back up to speed with the Premier League opener at Arsenal now just one month away. Speaking to LCFC TV, James started by reflecting on the first two days in Austria before addressing the intense heat that greeted City upon arrival.
“It’s been really tough so far,” he said. “The training sessions have been really hard with a good intensity but enjoyable at the same time. It is really warm but we’re getting a sweat on and it's enjoyable. I’ve missed being with the boys and it’s a great bunch of lads. I’m enjoying every minute of it.”
In the past, pre-season training has been synonymous with prolonged fitness and conditioning sessions. However, James says that City have also been working on their overall game: “There’s nothing better than getting the football out. None of us will say we enjoy the running but it’s got to be done in pre-season.
“We’re glad the balls are out and we’re playing at a good tempo.”
James Glad To Be Back
Matty James said he was pleased to be back with the squad for pre-season training following his loan spell at Barnsley earlier this year.
The 25-year-old also revealed how City’s naturally competitive edge - central to their industrious playing style - has aided their efforts to return to fitness with training being played out at a frantic pace.
“From day one, it’s been a competitive group,” James added. “Everybody wants to win and I think it brings the sessions on quicker. The ball gets moved quicker and the intensity is higher. It’s a good competitive streak between the lads.”
For more from Austria this week, check back to LCFC.com for news and exclusive video content.