'We'll meet every challenge head on': Power poised for Bantams kick-off

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MAX Power leads City into League One battle today admitting he has missed the fixture congestion.

Over 19,000 fans will be at Valley Parade for the Wycombe clash to end a six-year exile from the third tier.

It will be an extra special occasion for new skipper Power back in the domestic game after spending the last two seasons playing in Saudi Arabia and Denmark.

"I really enjoyed my time out of the country," he said. "It was great to go and experience different cultures and different types of football.

"But there is something about English football and the crowd and that buzz of the first game of the season.

"The biggest thing I've probably missed was the amount of fixtures. Both countries I was in were one game a week.

"I've always loved playing Saturday, Tuesday, Saturday and I think my body became used to that.

"When the games are coming thick and fast, especially when you're on good runs, you like to build that momentum.

"Others complain about the fixture congestion but I quite enjoy it."

Power found game time limited at Aarhus in the last campaign as the Danish club focused on bringing younger players through. But he insists his body is up to the challenge of City's full-on campaign.

"Anyone who knows Uwe Rosler, my coach in Denmark, will know how hard you work day to day.

"Although I didn't play as much as I'd like last season, I certainly got worked hard every day.

"It was a different experience with a bit more of a role from the bench. It was something I had to adapt to.

City lose themselves in the moment after the promotion goal (Image: Thomas Gadd)

"I'd be lying if I said I enjoyed it because I want to play as much football as I can. Pre-season with the gaffer has certainly got me back up to speed."

Power, a three-time League One title winner, is also convinced that City will be up to the task as they step up to the next level.

There is a strong belief in the dressing room - although he says they will keep a lid on any brash predictions.

"It's just managing expectations," he added. "The external noise will always be there, whatever club you're at, so it's important internally we know what our focus is.

"The focus is that we'll try to go and win each game. There's obviously the feeling of the momentum of coming into the division.

"I think that's good and we've got to use it and the power of the crowd.

"One thing I've learned in years gone by is that it's ultimately about what goes on inside the dressing room.

"When we come through the doors every day, training has got to be full tilt without stepping over the line.

"There's been a real big demand from each other this pre-season. I want the team to believe we can go and achieve something.

"I feel like the league is going to be wide open and I want the supporters to dream. Why not go and have another successful season?

"I'm not going to make predictions and say this and that but I'll drive the point home that we'll meet every challenge head on."

Graham Alexander signing a new longer-term contract this week provided a further boost within the squad. Power is delighted for the City boss.

"He's done a fantastic job since he came into the club. He's brought me here this summer and I've loved my time with him so far.

"I've spoken previously about how many games he played and that was a big draw for me.

"It helps when you're signing that you've got a manager who appreciates senior boys because you speak to some clubs and they're not interested after the number 30.

"It's great news for the manager and the club and great that we can put the 'is he going to sign' stuff to bed and concentrate on the football."