DEFENDER Pete Monks says competition for places is rife at the new-look Chippenham Town – and that can only bode well for his side’s chances of climbing the Calor League Premier Division table in the New Year.

Former Weston-super-Mare man Monks was one of a clutch of players snapped up by Chippenham boss Mark Collier following his arrival at Hardenhuish Park in November.

The 27-year-old is expecting to come under pressure for the left-back slot when Jack Allward returns from a dislocated shoulder and says that he’s enjoyed his start to life with the Bluebirds.

“The team is obviously going through a bit of a transition and there are still lots of new lads coming in, like the loan signings, but I think that the competition for places can only be a good thing,” said Monks.

“I’d been at Weston for a season-and-a-half but got injured and like any player, I wasn’t enjoying being sat on the bench when I came back. I knew that Chippenham was a big club and I live nearer to here too.

“There are some good players here and some great characters in the dressing room, so it’s been nice to be involved in so far.

“Our results haven’t been great but I think that it won’t be long before we start picking up some points and pushing on into the New Year.”

Monks got his first taste of the West Country derby against near neighbours Frome Town on Boxing Day and was disappointed to see his side surrender a two-goal second half lead on their way to drawing 3-3 at home.

He added: “It felt like a loss to be honest and I think that they’ll have gone away feeling like they’ve won the game.

“They’re a side that are in transition, just like us, and not winning a game when you’re 3-1 up is disappointing – three goals at home should be enough.”

FOR MORE SPORTS NEWS, REPORTS & PICTURES SEE THURSDAY'S GAZETTE & HERALD AND FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @gazsport