CHRIS Smith is relishing the fight to start 2010-11 in the centre of Mansfield Town's defence.

The 29-year-old captained Tamworth last season in their first at Blue Square Bet Premier level, making 36 starts.

But he knows that does not guarantee he will be first choice after moving to Field Mill, where the competition is hotting up.

Steve Foster and Tom Naylor showed their credentials in a 1-0 friendly win over Sheffield United on Saturday, in which Smith also played his part.

And latest signing Mark Preece will also be throwing in his lot.

Smith insists he would not want it any other way and believes the number of options open to boss David Holdsworth can only benefit the team.

"I think you need that kind of competition, it can only be a good thing," said Smith.

"If you get complacent as a player and know you are going to get in the team come what may, it can start to affect your performances.

"It is up to us all now to impress in pre-season to try to get the nod from the manager."

The weekend clash with Kevin Blackwell's side saw Michael Boulding back in a Mansfield shirt as a trialist.

And he scored in a 3-0 win against Barnsley yesterday in a behind-closed-doors friendly. Fellow trialist Jon Leonard and Ryan Williams got the others.

Smith would be more than happy to see the lively frontman sign for the club for a third time.

He said: "As a centre half, you look for forwards to make runs and make it uncomfortable for the defenders – and that's what he did against Sheffield United.

"He linked up well and worked very hard. He's a quality player."