Stoke City forward Million Manhoef says he "can't wait to get rocking" this season and is confident the Potters are building a squad capable of improving on a disappointing 2024-25.
Given Stoke only secured their Championship status on the final day last season, finishing two points above the relegation zone, that should not be too difficult.
But, heading into an eighth straight season in the second tier, Stoke fans will feel a sustained challenge for promotion back to the Premier League is very overdue.
"For the team, the ambition is always to aim as high as possible," Manhoef told BBC Radio Stoke.