Watson 'excited' for League One challenge

The challenge of playing against some of England’s biggest and most decorated football clubs next season is one that excites Cobblers midfielder Ryan Watson.

Following their play-off final thrashing over Exeter City last month, Town can now look forward to hosting plenty of big games at the PTS Academy Stadium.

Next season’s League One, with the likes of Sunderland, Portsmouth and Ipswich Town, and three more to drop down from the Championship, plus rivals Oxford United, MK Dons and Peterborough United, looks extremely competitive on paper.

But Watson, who’s never previously played in League One, can’t wait to get stuck in.

“It’s something I’m definitely looking forward to,” he said. “I’ve had quite a few seasons playing League Two football and I’ve been close to League One a couple of times but now it’ll be nice to come back as a League One player.

“I’m excited for it and really looking forward to the challenge. We’ll be up against some really big clubs and big teams but that’s what we want – why can’t we go up and have a really good go? We’ve got a great group of lads here and great staff so I think we’ll be more than alright.”

Asked if there’s any fixture he’s particularly keen on, Watson replied: “There won’t be any game I’m looking out for.

“Tranmere would have been a nice one as I’m from around there, but unfortunately they got relegated so it wasn’t to be – but I’m just looking forward to each game as they come.”

Whilst they know what division they’ll be in, the Cobblers are not yet sure when the new season will actually start after a vote to choose between August 29 and September 12 was delayed until the end of next week.

Watson added: “It’s difficult this year not knowing exactly when we’ll be back in but everyone’s in the same position and it’s something we’ve got to get through together.

“I think we’re all looking forward to training again and everybody will be ready when we do return. We just can’t wait to get back and play in League One.”

James Heneghan