Ipswich Town forward Jack Lankester says manager Paul Lambert has made it ‘pretty clear’ to the players that the aim is to win League One.
The Blues have been made second favourites for the third-tier title following relegation, but Lambert tried to dampen those outside expectations in a recent interview by highlighting his lack of funds.
What's being said within the camp appears to be different though.
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"He's made it pretty clear that we're out to win the league," said Lankester, when asked what Lambert's message to the players had been during their training camp at a remote location in West Germany.
The 19-year-old academy graduate, who hails from Bury St Edmunds and grew up a Town fan, added: "Last year was hard - definitely. Obviously my whole family are fans too, so it was not nice with what happened.
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"But we've got to look at it that we've got to bounce back up this season straight away, no doubt about it.
"The first few games are vital. We have to get off to a good start and that sets out our season. If we get some points early we'll be alright.
"We've just got to give everything. I know I'll give everything for this club."
Lankester burst on the scene last season, making 11 first team appearances before sitting out the final few months of the campaign due to a stress fracture in his back.
He made his comeback last weekend, playing 45 minutes of a 3-2 friendly defeat against Bundesliga side Paderborn.
"It's the best feeling once you get back out there with the boys," he said. "It was five months (out) and then the summer as well, so I was craving to come back.
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"The delay over my return was partly making sure everything was right, but I think I needed that. Being the age I am with the injury I had, the best thing to do is wait until it's perfect.
"To be fair the break probably helped. I had an extra six weeks over the summer to keep working on it and improve the injury.
"The manager has said 'look, we weren't expecting you to come back and go in straight away' - which I have - so he's pleased with that."
With this his first time away for a first team pre-season camp, Lankester added: "It's definitely different, a lot more intense to last year. I enjoy it. There is so much more going on. To come away and have that space with everyone and bond with everyone is really good.
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