New signing Jacob Butterfield soon made his mark in training, according to Town caretaker manager Mark Lillis.
The 24-year-old, who finally completed his £750,000 move from Middlesbrough on Wednesday, was put through his paces at PPG Canalside yesterday.
Now the Bradford-born midfielder, who has also played for Barnsley and Norwich City, is in line for a debut at Cardiff City tomorrow.
“Jacob’s a bright lad and a good listener,” explained academy chief Lillis, who is working alongside Steve Thompson and Steve Eyre as Town search for Mark Robins’ successor.
“He was ready to work hard and keen to listen to what we had to say, and it’s good to have him on board.
“He’s an experienced player who gives us options, because he can play in a variety of midfield roles.
“It was a split session, and we went a bit easier on the lads who played at Chesterfield on Tuesday, because with extra time, that was a tough match.
“But the spirit is good, as you’d expect after a win, and they players gave me plenty to ponder.
“We’ve been running the rule on Cardiff, who are obviously a strong side and have players with Premier League experience.
“It’s our job to come up with a plan to give them problems.
“We will train before setting off for Wales today, and I will finalise the team selection and tell the lads exactly what’s happening on the way down.”
Butterfield said: “I’ve spoken with everyone at the club, including the chairman a few times, and they’ve sold the club to me.
“I’ve never had a chairman call me before to be honest, so for that to happen and for him to tell me how much I’m wanted here was brilliant.”
Cardiff are closing in on the capture of former Town winger Anthony Pilkingon for £1m from Championship rivals Norwich.
The Republic of Ireland player could feature against Town.
