IT’S SHOWTIME in 24 hours, and I’m feeling both excited and nervous as we complete our preparations for Stockport’s visit.

But anyone who doesn’t have those kind of emotions at the start of a new season shouldn’t be in football management.

It’s a tough job – or to describe it better, way of life – because it’s 24/7 and your neck is always on the block.

But it’s an enjoyable one as well, and I don’t really know any different.

I still have the will and passion to produce successful sides, I still feel fit and I’m still bright between the ears – I hope!

There’s no doubt Arsene Wenger is, and it was good to have a chat with him before Wednesday’s game, which I thought was a fitting way to mark our centenary.

I’ve known him for a number of years and he is a good guy who runs a very successful football club and has some interesting things to say about the game.

From our point of view, it was a good exercise because we were able to work further on our shape and balance.

The game was played in a great spirit and both sides came through without mishap.