Super Sandwith

9:07am Wednesday 2nd July 2008

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WEYMOUTH boss John Hollins believes his latest recruit Kevin Sandwith will prove to be a key component in his new-look side during the forthcoming campaign.

The versatile defender, who can also play in midfield, began his career as a trainee at Carlisle United where he made just three appearances before sealing a switch to non-League Barrow.

A spell at Doncaster Rovers then followed until he eventually made his way to Halifax Town where he secured a regular starting spot and soon began attracting the interest of several League clubs.

Lincoln City finally landed him in March 2004 for £10,000 but after just one season at Sincil Bank he moved on to Macclesfield Town and then Chester City in June 2006 where he initially played under former England international Mark Wright.

Last December Sandwith was then told that he did not figure in the Blues' future plans, yet just a month later he returned to their starting line up where he regularly featured until the end of the season.

However, his resurgence did not convince him to stay at the Deva Stadium despite being offered a new deal by current City boss Simon Davies and it is the Terras who have benefited.

Hollins said: "Kevin is a very experienced player and I am delighted to have him here.

"He is a solid defender who has played in different divisions and can comfortably play at either centre back or left back.

"He is also a winner and that is the sort of quality we have been after and I believe we have got it.

"Kevin has spent most of his career up north so he has travelled a long way to improve us and improve himself.

"His commitment is fantastic and the way he has already fitted in and began working has been very impressive."

The Terras went through another rigorous training session under the supervision of Sergeant Major Stef Collins yesterday and Hollins is pleased with how his men are shaping up.

He added: "The boys are looking extremely fit. There are a few aching legs and blisters, and a couple of the younger lads are feeling their hamstrings a bit but that is to be expected.

"They also did a lot of work on their upper bodies but although they found that hard going most of them are fine in that department anyway.

"As well as improving fitness, the sessions are also building a great team spirit and togetherness. They are taking the players to the limit and ensuring they put trust in each other.

"Cambridge United went 20 games without being beaten and finished second last season after working with Stef and that is proof that his methods work.

"I want the players to be the fittest they can feel but obviously it is not just about that, it is about what you do with the ball as well and we will be doing plenty of work on that side too.

"If you can keep the ball then the other team can't score but it is about being able to maintain that for 90 minutes and that is where fitness is so important.

"All the lads have shown great determination since they have come back and are all gelling together which is great to see."

* The Blue Square Premier fixtures are due to be released this morning.