MICHAEL Tidser says he’s looking forward to his first trip to Shielfield Park when Morton square-off against Berwick Rangers in this afternoon’s Betfred Cup group clash.

Tidser started in last season’s reverse fixture at Cappielow in the same competition, when Ton ran out comfortable 2-0 victors thanks to goals from Jamie Lindsay and Jai Quitongo

But the midfielder has yet to experience playing in front of the Borderers’ home crowd.

And he insists that whilst he’s rubbing his hands together at the prospect of playing at a new venue, he is prepared to go and do a professional job to come away with the win in Ton’s opening group fixture.

He told the Tele: “These games are always difficult, regardless of division or if they’re full-time or not full-time.

"You’ve got to be professional and do a job. But I’m sure if we show enough quality, I’m hopeful we can pick up a positive result.

“I’ve never been down there but I’ve heard a few stories about the pitch, maybe a slope and things like that. It’s new to me, so I’m looking forward to it.”

Tidser, 27, is one of the many Morton stars eager to get the action started after a gruelling pre-season. 

He says he and his team-mates are feeling as fit as ever after being put through their paces by Jim Duffy in preparation for the new campaign.

With games set to come thick and fast in the Betfred Cup, Tidser believes that having a larger and fitter squad is imperative.

He said: “If you ask any professional player, nobody really likes pre-season. You like getting fit again but it’s very demanding with a lot of double sessions and long days.

"When you’re building up towards something and then it’s Saturday — all the boys are raring to go.

“You only get a short break and it’s getting shorter and shorter every year. I remember being a young boy and having seven weeks off, whereas now you’re lucky to get two or three. So we’re fit, the gaffer has worked us hard and we’re looking forward to Saturday and then Tuesday again.

“I think the fact that we have good enough players all over the park is important. 

“Having two games in a week at the beginning of the season is big, so that’s the importance of having a good squad. I’m sure the manager will utilise his squad and even the young boys who have come in have done well as well. 

“We’ll take each game as it comes and hopefully we can get out of the group.”