The ex-Corby Town player, who celebrates his 29th birthday this Friday, has been training regularly in the gym since the title-winning season ended in a bid to improve his fitness before the players return for a 'M.O.T day' later next month.
He was speaking after signing a Football League contract with us last week.
Matt Rhead is speaking to our Head of Media & Communications Mark Stevenson
"I've been in the gym the past few weeks, just to make sure I'm prepared for when the season starts," said Rhead. Â "There's nothing worse than turning up for pre-season and you're not fully prepared. Â I just want to make sure I give it my best shot for next season.
"I do loads of cardio, it's not good, but it gets me out of the house," he quipped.