Edwin: It's good to be back
Despite only having been back in training for the best part of
three days, Edwin van der Sar says there is already a real
determination to build on last season's success amongst the
squad.
The Dutch stopper was reunited with his United colleagues at
Carrington on Wednesday as the Reds reported back for pre-season
training.
Van der Sar insists it is great to back with his team-mates after a
well-earned break.
"We've been training hard for a week now and this period before the
new season kicks off is crucial if we are going to have as good a
start as we did last year," he explained on his personal website at
Icons.com.
"I had a six-week break and it was nice to have a proper holiday
with my family and really relax. But now it's great to be back with
the lads, hearing all the banter and the stories from their
vacations.
"There are some great characters at Manchester United and the
spirit in the locker room is good. The first week back in
pre-season is where the hard work gets done and everyone is digging
in."
The Reds' No.1 described lifting the Barclays Premier League trophy
last season as a 'fantastic feeling' and asserted his desire to
repeat Edwin: It's good to be back
"We know it's going to be another tough season, but we are
determined to keep the league title in Manchester. We don't want to
give it up," he insisted.
"I'm not sure you can say we have specific priorities this year as
we want to go out and win every game. We just aim to beat anybody
we play it's as simple as that."
Like most pundits, the 36-year-old expects the title race to once
again be fought out by the big four.
"I'm sure our main rivals will be Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool,"
he said. "Arsenal lost Thierry Henry and obviously he's a major
player, but they'll be looking to fill that gap and I think they
will be more determined than ever.
"The others have also strengthened their squads so it could be a
real battle. But it's one we are all looking forward to."