Cedric Evina says from the moment he arrived at Doncaster Rovers he got the feeling the club could achieve something special this season.
Expectation levels among supporters may be significantly lower than the last time Rovers were in League One.
And another chaotic pre-season means Doncaster are seen by most outsiders - and the bookies - more as dark horses, rather than a leading contender, for an instant return to the Championship.
However, former Arsenal trainee Evina - an ever-present at left back this season - has a very different and much more optimistic view on the season ahead.
And it didn’t take him long to formulate that opinion.
“What you see from the outside is not what it’s like on the inside,” said Evina.
“When I joined in pre-season I could see the potential of the team straight away and I also knew how good every player was.
“I could see we might be able to do something good this season.
“I think we’ve had a positive start to the season,” he added.
“All the boys have settled in really well and I think we’re going from strength to strength the more we play together.
“We’ve got a tight group here. All the lads get on really well, even the ones that don’t always play.
“It’s down to the gaffer choosing the right of sort of players. We don’t have a bad egg in the group.
“Everyone is supportive of each other, whether they’re playing or not.”
n Rob Jones’ first competitive game in charge of Doncaster’s development team ended in defeat yesterday when his former club Scunthorpe ran out 2-1 winners at Cantley Park.
Jack McKay netted a late consolation for Rovers following second half strikes from Iron pair Callum Howe and Kyle Wootton.
Richie Wellens played for 65 minutes for Rovers as he looks to build up his match sharpness.
n Rovers have reminded fans not to travel to Bristol City without a ticket.
Saturday’s game is an all-ticket fixture and there will be no tickets on sale on the day of the game.
Tickets will remain on sale until midday Friday priced £20 Adult, £15 Senior 65+, £15 Under 21yrs, £12 Under 19yrs, £7 Under 8yrs.