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Steven Crawford

Shaun Want knows the target on Larne's back will be even bigger next season

Shaun Want knows as reigning champions Larne will be the team everyone wants to beat this coming season.

The Invermen get their new campaign up and running this afternoon when they take on Irish Cup winners in the Charity Shield in partnership with White Ribbon NI.

Want accepts from the off they will have a "bigger target" on their backs but he insists it is a challenge they are relishing.

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"I would say this season coming we've probably got a bigger target on our back than usual," said the centre back.

"Every team will want to step up their game and lay down a marker against us.

"It was kind of similar last season when we were at the top of the league. Everyone was doing their best to beat us so it's something we're used to and need to relish."

Last season's league title win was the first time Larne have got their hands on the Gibson Cup.

The big thing for them now is building on it with Want revealing they have had several meetings as a team about where they go from here.

"We've had numerous meetings since winning the league, last season is now forgotten about," he said.

"It's all about kicking on and doing even better.

"We want to win more trophies and try to retain the league title."

A first-ever foray into Europe awaits Want in the next fortnight as Larne take on HJK Helsinki in their Champions League first qualifying round.

It has been a quick turnaround for Larne but Want feels today's clash with Crusaders will be good preparation for their clash with the Finnish champions.

"It's always good when you're playing friendlies that there is a bit of a competitive edge to them," he said.

"You want to test yourself ahead of the new season.

"We've obviously played Crusaders a lot. We know it will be a tough game but it will help us going into the game against Helsinki.

"It's been a short break, about four weeks, but it was good as I got back home to Scotland to see the family and I got to go away on holiday too.

"It was enjoyable but before you know it it has flown in and you're back in again for pre-season.

"It has been tough especially with the weather, it has been scorching, which doesn't help.

"That's just over two weeks we have been in now and it has been tough as it's mostly been double sessions every day as we prepare for this European game.

"It's good to get new faces in and have a bit of competition for places so that nobody feels comfortable and everyone is pushing each other."

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