JAKE Wright says that will to win in the Oxford United camp is stronger than ever.

The U’s travel north today to prepare for their npower League Two opener against Rotherham tomorrow.

And the centre back, named as the club’s new captain in the summer, says that there is a real determination in United’s squad to make sure this season is a success.

Boss Chris Wilder has made nine summer signings, and Wright says that while the division looks tougher this season, the U’s squad is better equipped to deal with it.

“The players are fiercely determined,” Wright said.

“There are some big clubs in our league, but our squad is stronger than before so we’re certainly ready for the challenges ahead.”

A number of Wilder’s summer signings will make their debuts tomorrow, with Wright vowing he is fit to start, despite missing the final two pre-season games against Everton and Thame with an elbow injury.

“I picked up a little knock, and the sensible thing was just to rest it, so that is what I have done” he said.

“I have been in training this week and am looking forward to Rotherham.”

Wright missed United’s photo-call this week, but was happy to explain why.

“I hadn’t had my hair cut or had a shave, so the gaffer told me I couldn’t be in it,” he laughed.

While the aim of the season is obviously to win promotion, nobody from the U’s camp – quite rightly – will stick out their necks and say as much. But self-belief around the dressing room is clearly high.

“We are not going to go around saying we’ll finish here or achieve this, we will just stick together, get our heads down and do the best we can,” Wright said. “If we do that, we are confident we can have a successful season.”

Wilder, whose side will train at Sheffield United today, says that while the excitement is building ahead of the campaign, there must be realistic expectations.

“We know that after two wins people will think you’ll be champions, and after two defeats you’re going to be relegated,” he said.

“There are going to be times this season where we play poorly and win, and other times when we play great and don’t.

“But it’s about getting that level of consistency, and we are confident we can do that.”