Mellberg : " I'll be back and better. "

Club Treasurer and centre back James 'Mellberg' Baker, has staked his claim early for his position in Epsom Downs' starting XI for the 08/09 season.

Baker played some part in Epsoms mundane campaign last year after being out through a long term knee injury.

Baker has kept himself in shape via excessive bench pressing at his local gym, and is looking forward to keeping next season's competition on there toes.

" It's been a frustrating couple of years for me. Like all of the boys i just want to play for my club. The knee is feeling a lot better, the 7 cow pies and meatballs everyday have helped build up the strength. I have been playing a lot of GTA 4 to help my reaction times as well as a bit of pro to help my managerial side, should i have to assist again next season. "

Last season Mellberg joined the 3 man team of Alex 'Milky' Maynard and Michael 'Dutchy' Holland as the managerial element of Epsom Downs. Something that in some weeks caused confusion.

" It was strange, last season was filled with so much promise, a good pre season campaign counted for pretty much nothing. Then having 3 blokes trying to pick a team was a bit of pain but hey. Hopefully this year we can improve and push for silverware. For us to do that we really could do with a manager. "

The mighty Swede was apprehensive about reports his cousin and former EDFC gaffer Andrew 'Sex Pest' Baker, could be making a return to Downs management.

" I'm not sure. He left for a variety of reasons. We know it was nothing to do with any of the lads. More to do with his new family and the fact that he would love to play again. I think it hurts him to watch all his mates playing while he cant. His knee injuries are far worse than mine and i do feel for him, even tho he is a fat bastard. "

Epsom Downs will regroup for Summer training in July and Mellberg hopes to be there with all of this years squad and more, as The Downs look to improve on torrid past campaign.

" I'll be there, and next season i'll be back better than ever. "

Big words from a big bastard!!