Maguire-drew: It's A Great Group To Be Around

Brighton & Hove Albion under-23 winger Jordan Maguire-Drew believes the training camp in Portugal was beneficial for himself and his team-mates, and highlighted the positive vibe within the squad.

Maguire-Drew enjoyed loan spells at Lincoln City and Coventry City last season, but the 20-year-old was pleased to share a week in Portugal with his Albion team-mates, as Simon Rusk’s side prepare for the new season.

He said, “It was a good week for me personally, and the rest of the boys were right at it. Everyone was sharp and the squad trained really well. We’re gelling together nicely.

“It was hard work with the different humidity, it plays a big factor. When you run, you can’t take in as much oxygen as you need - so you have to change your body to adjust to different climates.

“It’s always nice to come back at pre-season and train with everyone. I caught up with all the boys - everyone in the squad gets on well, both on and off the pitch. It’s a great group to be around.”

The winger made 14 appearances in League Two last season, and after having a break over the summer, Maguire-Drew admitted he was desperate to get back on the pitch.

“Even if you’re a top player, you can always find ways to improve your game, but mentally it’s also important to switch off for a while.

“You try to catch up with old friends throughout the summer and have some down time to recover. Your body needs recovery after a long season.

“It’s always nice to have a break but I was itching to come back. When you are back, to be around a group like this, you can’t ask for much more.”