City full-back Mark Kennedy is enjoying the pre-season workout in Portugal - but is looking forward to getting out on the pitch against Portimonense SC on Saturday.

Speaking exclusively to Cardiff City Player on Tuesday, Sparky said: "You do all your running and fitness training of course, but you want to put it into practice in games.

"It's very different playing foreign opposition too; Portimonense will be very skilful and are sure to give us a good workout.

"It's very important to keep hold of the ball in these games as the opposition will fizz it around and make it very difficult for you to get back. We're all looking forward to the challenge."

And although the Bluebirds have had a shorter summer break than usual this year, the Irishman is glad to be back in the swing of things.

"It's nice to get back and blow away the cobwebs of last season," he said. "It's been good to get back and see all the lads again, and we're looking forward to starting the new campaign.

"This pre-season has been different to ones before, as we obviously haven't had as much time off. It's now a case of getting everybody ticking over again but the lads are looking sharp and in good shape.

"We've got a great setup out here in Portugal. There's plenty for us to do in between training sessions, be it golf or snooker for example, but first and foremost we're out here to work hard and get ready for the new season.

"We're trying out some different things on the training pitch and I think you'll see a different Cardiff City in the Championship next term."

See the full, exclusive interview with Sparky plus much more footage from the Bluebirds' week in Portugal by going to Cardiff City Player.