Cobblers buzzing ahead of start of new season, says O’Donovan

Cobblers kick-off their campaign at York City on Saturday, following a pre-season that has produced some very positive results.

Aidy Boothroyd’s men beat Leicester City 2-1 on Tuesday night, three days after a success against a Stoke City development side by the same scoreline.

And O’Donovan, who is likely to lead the line against the Minstermen this weekend, can’t wait for league football to begin.

“It’s been going really good during pre-season,” said the striker. “We’re starting to build a squad for the new season and we’re looking good.

“We’re maybe one or two bodies short, as the manager has mentioned, but there’s a good buzz around the place and I’m looking forward to York on Saturday.”

O’Donovan scored six times in 19 appearances for Cobblers last season, following his release from Coventry City in January.

He is the man Cobblers will look to for goals at the start of this campaign, with fellow forwards Clive Platt and Alex Nicholls out injured, but the 27-year-old is refusing to set any targets.

“I’m feeling positive,” said O’Donovan, who signed a new two-year deal in June. “It’s a good place to be and I wanted to sign for the manager and for the club because I had a good time here last year.

“Hopefully there are many good days to come.

“I haven’t made any targets, I’m just looking forward to the first game and taking it from there.”