Whitehaven full-back Louis Jouffret says that the club has made big improvements since his last stint in west Cumbria.

Jouffret joined Haven on loan partway through last season and made nine appearances. He has since signed a one-year deal at The Recreation Ground.

Keen to make an impression on his return, Jouffret says he is ready for the new season to start on Sunday.

“I feel a bit more comfortable in the team and the system we want to play,” he said. “Things are easier this time around and I want to play better this year.

“There’s lots of competition for places, but it’s always good because everyone plays better in training.

“You know you have to improve yourself and it then makes the teamsheet better.

“I know everyone from last year and the new lads coming in have been great with me. They are all great team-mates.

“Playing a full season in the Championship will be a big step up for me, but I’ll do everything I can to help Haven go as far as they can.”

Jouffret played a part in both of Haven’s pre-season wins against Workington and Newcastle and was pleased to get back out on the field.

Although conditions were unfavourable, Jouffret believes the team can take a lot of positives from the results.

“I’d not won in the derby so it was a great feeling to get a win and get the fans behind us,” the Frenchman added. “The conditions weren’t great but a win is a win.

“Against Newcastle, it was good to get out of the mud.

“We played well and we were able to play the way we wanted to. This year will be a big test for us.

“Going up against the bigger teams in the league is good for us to test ourselves.

“We’ve improved from last year and it will be good to see what happens.”

Haven’s away shirts are now available from the club office and will be on sale at Sport House and Sport Zone from tomorrow.