Daniel Kearns is back, refreshed and keen to impress during the pre-season training camp.

The Peterborough United squad needed the summer break more than most after just a month between the conclusion of the play-off final and the start of pre-season training, but for midfielder Daniel Kearns, the schedule was punishing.

Kearns joined Posh at the end of August after playing a full campaign in the Irish League during the summer months and was always in and around the first team squad in the Championship.

He admits the break came at the right time and is looking forward to trying to hold down a regular berth in the Posh starting line-up this term.

'I enjoyed the rest. I was able to get back to Ireland and see my family and have a complete break from football. I felt I needed it. I joined Posh in August and was playing for Dundalk all through the summer so it has been a tough year, but I feel stronger for the rest and I am raring to go.

'The lads were saying prior to flying out to Portugal that the place we would be staying at would be fantastic, but until you actually come over here, you don't realise just how good the facilities are.

'The accomodation, the pitches, the food, everything is of the highest standard and the players have enjoyed the time we have had together so far. It is actually the first pre-season that I had outside of the country and it is great to get away.

'The manager has made a few signings and from what I have seen, they are decent players so the competition for places is there and that is healthy. I am desperate to get into the team, so I am going to work hard, get my head down and hopefully I can show the gaffer what I can do.

'I feel the break has done me the world of good, but I am just focussed on hitting the ground running and showing everyone what I am about. I would love to be in the team for the first game of the season, but I know I have a lot of work to do,' Kearns said.