Club skipper Ady Williams begins the new season with the first of his weekly views from the County Ground dressing room.

AS a footballer you do try to ignore all the off-the-field things that go on in the backgrounds at clubs, but of course it is a relief the takeover has finally gone through.

This thing in particular has seemed to drag on for a long time now and I have always thought the sooner it is sorted the better.

The lads keep getting asked does it affect you etc, and while I don't think it does majorly, it is there in the back of your mind.

To be honest the players are normally the last to know anything about things like that but when it is all sorted, it will be much better for everyone.

I am pleased for the fans and the manager, as well as the players, because it allows things to settle down and allows us to get on with our job.

It was something that was needed to be resolved and now it has I think it is time to look forward.

Talking about looking forward, young Ben Tozer, pictured below, certainly did not let himself down on his debut against Charlton on Tuesday night.

The lad was chucked into the deep end and he came out with flying colours.

He really did a great job, especially out of position, and it is not easy for a 17-year-old, particularly in a game against such good opposition.

I was fortunate enough to make my debut as a 17-year-old and I remember the nerves and pride I felt.

He coped admirably with those mix of feelings. He is obviously a strong boy mentally.

I know he is only 17 but he looks stronger physically and has shown he is stronger mentally as well.

The manager obviously knew that about him when he put him in.

I also thought Christian Roberts was outstanding on Tuesday night.

The crosses he was getting in were causing real danger.

Charlton didn't know how to stop him in that first half and for an hour I thought, as a team, we looked very good.

Charlton are a good side and you have to remember we won't be playing against them every week but for long periods I felt we matched them.

We were despondent after the penalty was given, I don't think it was a penalty, as at 2-0 down the game is effectively over.

The manager seemed pleased though and there are a lot of positives to take.

The manager has got options now. Everyone with any knowledge of football and Swindon Town knows the manager is trying to bring a striker in.

It is the only area that is still a real concern but hopefully Barry Corr is not a million miles from getting back to actiion.

If you at the other position, full backs, midfield, central defence, we have got strong competition for places and that is healthy.

I have heard a lot about Sam Parkin's time at Swindon and obviously he was a favourite with the fans and the players.

Some are still good friends with him. He may get a mixed reception and I am sure he will be looking to put one over on us when Luton come here on Saturday.

They have a few older pros in their side and come here with a 100 per cent record.

We know it is not going to be easy.

9:20am Thursday 16th August 2007

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