New signing Joe Rodon admits he expects Grimsby to ‘come out fighting’ if he is handed his Football League debut this weekend.
Rodon moved to the Robins from Swansea on loan this week ahead of transfer deadline day.
The 20-year-old is now in contention for a place in the squad that travels to Blundell Park – and he knows the size of the task ahead of him.
“On a personal level it would be a very exciting time for me and hopefully I can get that (debut) done,” said Rodon.
“In the Checkatrade games you learn it is not just about playing football. There is a physical side to the game and you have got to have that in your locker. I have come here to learn and improve.
“Grimsby will come out fighting an are next to us in the league. We have got to be prepared for everything and hopefully we can get those three points.
“There is competition here and there is no guarantee you will play,” he added.
“You have got to work hard every day, show the manager what you are about and stake your claim in your position.
“It’s helped being able to train this week and get a good week in before the potential first game. I am excited about the challenge ahead.”
Rodon faced Cheltenham in the Checkatrade Trophy earlier this season – skippering Swansea Under-23s to success at the LCI Rail Stadium.
Manager Gary Johnson has revealed he kept tabs on Rodon all season before landing his man just before the transfer window shut.
And the Welshman admits he feels his game has come on this season with the responsibility of captaining the Swansea development side.
“We played Cheltenham earlier in the season and it was a very good game. I was attracted by that so hopefully I can help the team push on now,” he said.
“I am here to play my own game, as the gaffer has told me. He’s told me to be myself and hopefully I can do that.
“Wearing the armband this season for Swansea was a new experience and good for me.
“Last summer I was given my chance to go away with Wales and I feel that has helped develop me as a player, on and off the field, too.”