Sam Ricketts has said that he expects to be inspired by Wolverhampton Wanderers' "phenomenal" supporters when he makes his debut for the club this afternoon.
The West Midlands outfit, who have suffered back-to-back relegations, start their League One campaign at Preston North End, where they will be roared on by 5,000 travelling fans.
Ricketts, who has played for six British teams including Hull City, Bolton Wanderers and Swansea City during his 15-year career, believes that Wolves fans are a cut above the rest.
"I was at Swansea at the start of their rise through the divisions and one thing we had was the support – everyone was pulling in the same direction," the defender told Wolves' official website.
"We need the same here now – that's the players, people running the club, the staff at the training ground and the media.
"To be taking 5,000 fans is phenomenal – I don't think any club I've played for has taken that many anywhere, it's inspirational. When we pull on that shirt, we're representing them and we want them to be proud of us."
Ricketts joined Wolves on a free transfer in July.
Robert Summerscales
