Boss Paul Jewell says he’s been impressed with new left-back Aaron Cresswell during pre-season, despite the youngster having stepped up a division after joining from Tranmere and moving out of home. The 21-year-old has been handed the number three shirt and looks set to start Town’s opener at Bristol City.
Jewell said: "It’s a big step up for Cressy, not just the club but moving away from home and doing his own ironing and stuff like that. I haven’t got to that stage yet!
"I think he’s done well and he’ll get better as he gets on. It’s a big step up for him but he will get better. There’s no rush, he’s still a young lad in football terms and he’ll get better.”
The Liverpool-born player says he’s itching to get started: "I just can't wait for the season to get up and running. My one target is to try and nail down a place in the side, so that's what I'm aiming for - getting myself on that teamsheet for Saturday.
"Training is going really well at the minute and I just want the season to start so we can get up and running."
Cresswell’s Tranmere contract was up at the end of last season, the full-back having turned down new terms, but the Prenton Park club are due compensation as he is under 24 years of age. Talks between the clubs are still ongoing with Rovers having turned down a number of Town offers. If an agreement can’t be reached, then the matter will go to a tribunal.