ROB Purdie has always classed himself as an adopted Herefordian and knows all too well what football means to the city's folk.

The 32-year-old, who won promotion to the Football League with Hereford United in 2006, has returned to Edgar Street for a fourth spell.

Along with fellow experienced campaigners Tony James and Joel Edwards, Purdie is being tasked with looking after the younger players of the squad.

"I have lived in the city for quite a while and even when I was at Shrewsbury, I wanted to live in Hereford," said Purdie.

"I am settled here and do not see myself leaving.

"It's been a rollercoaster for me during the eight and a half years that I have played for Hereford, but it's good to be back and part of what is happening here.

"I am looking forward turning up on the first day in front of a lot of fans and cannot wait.

"It is massive for the city, you only had to see the FC United game to see the buzz in and around around the city.

"I was speaking to someone in Zizzi's who said she wants to go to the first game because she could hear the noise.

"The business revenue it brings to the city is second to none and if we can be successful and regularly get four-figure attendances, then that can only be a good thing."

Purdie was coaching the United in the Community team last season and hoped to continue with that this season.

But when that didn't materialise, Purdie had a decision to make.

"I spoke to a couple of clubs and I knew me and Beads (manager Peter Beadle) would speak, I just didn't know who would ring who.

"I spoke to him before he got the job and as soon as he got it, he said he wanted to bring me in.

"A couple of weeks went when I was talking to other clubs, but I knew the club was going to be competitive and we came to an agreement that worked out for me and Beads so we pushed it forward.

"I plan to be at Hereford until the end of my career."

Purdie acknowledges he was not everyone's favourite player during his previous stints at Hereford.

"Everything in football regardless of talent is based on opinions and you're never going to please all of the fans," said Purdie.

"But I think they can see my passion for the club and I've got a good relationship with them."

Purdie knows there is expectation on Hereford to gain promotion at the first attempt, but he said the team has to earn that right.

"I've played in good and bad teams, I had success with Hereford and Darlington but also a couple of bad seasons with Hereford," said Purdie.

"I have my expectations, as does Beads and every player and fans of where we want to finish, but it is hard for anyone to get out of when only one club goes up.

"But I am more and more confident every day and it is looking more positive.

"But if we lose 1-0 or win 7-0 in the first game, it makes no difference because we know it's going to be a really difficult season.

"We are going to keep our feet on the ground because we know it's going to be a really tough league."