The County Ground experience returns for a new season... can it provide signs of intent at Swindon Town?

So then, it’s back to the County Ground. That first trip of the season is different to all the others, such is the extra anticipation, like visiting an old friend after years out of contact.

The curious and quaint traditions: the pint in The Merlin; the pitstop at the chippy; the dance around the Magic Roundabout among scattered scarves and replica shirts.

Regardless of how knackered the stadium is – and, boy, is it knackered – it is still very difficult to shake the feeling of friendly familiarity on a warm August afternoon, after a summer of Saturdays.