City captain Jake Taylor says the side are raring to go ahead of Saturday’s Carabao Cup clash with Bristol City at Ashton Gate.
The Grecians head up the M5 to face the Robins for the first time since 2001 and Taylor can’t wait for their first competitive game in over two months.
“It will be really nice to get back to playing. We’ve had a very good – but different – pre season and now the games are starting to come it’s really exciting and it’ll be a great game for us against good opposition. It’s one that we’re all looking forward to.”
While City fans won’t be able to attend the clash, it will be available to watch on iFollow, and the captain hopes that those watching at home will get to see the best of the three new signings as well as some of the younger talent on show this season.
“It would have been nice if the fans could be there but I’m sure plenty of them will be following online.
“It’s a lovely stadium and it’ll be a great experience for some of the younger boys as well as the new lads. It’s a big challenge but we’re really looking forward to. We go there with great confidence.
“It’s a good chance to look at some of the lads who are coming up from the youth and are going to have a chance this year. We’re really looking forward to it.”
There could be a host of debuts at Ashton Gate not only for new signings Rory McArdle, Lewis Page and Jake Caprice, but for several of the younger players who are breaking into the first team this season. As captain, Taylor feels he will play an important part in their development as they head into a busy and compact season.
“It’s part of my role and responsibility to make sure they feel comfortable in training and in the games as we’re going to need them.
“It’s about giving them confidence as they are more than capable. If I can help them out, I’m here to do that.”
Kick off at Ashton Gate is at 2pm and you can find more details on how to watch here.