Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
‘Big year’ for he eyes up a
DUNDEE midfielder Tom Hateley says he’s “never felt better” as he prepares to hit the ground running in what will be a pivotal year in his football career.
The 27-year-old admits he’s aware he’s heading into what is generally seen as the peak of a footballer’s powers and knows it’s time for him to really show what he’s capable of.
That’s good news for Dundee as Hateley is determined to improve on his first season at Dens Park.
He said: “It’s, hopefully, a big year for me.
“I’m 27 and in the peak of my career and I’m looking to do well this season. I’m looking to push on.
“I’ve never felt better. I’m obviously getting fitter with pre-season at the moment but I was starting to feel it at the end of last season.
“I didn’t have a pre-season because I didn’t sign here until late, so I’ve looked to work hard this summer so I can be flying for the start of the season.
“It’s a big year for me and I’m looking to make my performances show that.”
Tonight Dundee wrap up their pre-season schedule ahead of Tuesday night’s opening Betfred Cup match at Raith Rovers with a home friendly against Bolton Wanderers.
It will be the Dark Blues’ first run out at Dens Park since manager Neil McCann took full-time charge of the team and Hateley is hoping the side can put on a good show for the first home support of the season.
However, he knows taking on an English Championship side like Bolton Wanderers won’t be straightforward and is expecting a tough test.
“Hopefully, we get a few fans in at Dens,” added Hateley.
“It’ll be a different game from the Brechin one.
“I’d imagine they’ll be good on the ball and will look to dominate possession but it won’t be a friendly I can say that.
“There’s definitely none of that about us, we’ll be wanting to win the game and I’m looking forward to it.
“You want to test yourself against good players and big clubs, Bolton are a big club and have some top players as well.
“It’ll be a good task for everybody and we’re looking forward to it.”
Wanderers don’t have many of the big names of just a few years ago after spending time in the third tier of