During the week Keith Downing has been telling readers of both the Western Daily Press and Gloucestershire Echo newspapers of his belief that midfielder Scott Brown will be stronger and better for next season.

Scott arrived at Whaddon Road as part of the deal that saw former wideman Brian Wilson go the other way nearly 18 months ago. However on just his third appearance for the club he suffered a horrific broken leg that left him facing a year-long battle to recover full fitness.

Nevertheless, he returned to first team action at the end of December 2007 and played out the remainder of the campaign. But, even Scott will admit that he has struggled with his fitness and form.

Keith Downing insists that Brown will be a different player next season after being put through his paces when the players return from their summer break. The manager has no doubts that a new slimline Brown will have a major part to play in helping his side become an established mid-table League One club.

"Scott has done fantastically well to come back from such a bad injury," Downing said.

"It was an absolute bonus for him to get 10 or 12 games on the back of what he has been through."

"We certainly haven't seen the best of him here yet because if you talk to people down at Bristol City they will tell you he was a real talent."

"If he can get a full pre-season under his belt we will start to see more of him. I know he is very keen to show the supporters here exactly what he can do next season."

"He will be very important for us next year. He will be like a new signing if he can come back to anywhere near his best."

Scott has featured predominantly on the left-hand side of midfield for the Robins, but he can also play in a central role.

Downing said: "He can play anywhere across the midfield and pops up in very dangerous positions."

"Scott is not a conventional wide player because he comes inside off the lines to make things happen. He won't fly past full-backs like a traditional winger, but is the sort of player that can see a pass and create chances for others."

Make sure you book your place for next season and join the many new supporters taking up the option of a 2008/09 season ticket with us at Whaddon Road. Click here for details.