Craig Davies is in upbeat mood ahead of tomorrow's big kick-off.

Davies looks set to make his full Latics debut following a summer move from Hellas Verona, and has already become something of a fans' favourite.

Now he will be looking to repay the faith boss John Sheridan has shown in him, beginning with a tough assignment against the Swans.

"I'm feeling good at the moment and I can't wait to get started," he revealed.

"I'm looking forward to a new start at Oldham after being with Wolves last year -- in fact I'm still getting a bit of stick in training for the headers I scored against us for Wolves last year!"

Davies arrived at the club after John Sheridan finally agreed a deal with the Italian Serie B side to land his man.

Shez has confirmed that Davies is a player he had been looking at since he took over at Boundary Park last summer, and the striker has lived up to that reputation so far.

Three goals in five pre-season appearances suggest promise, but the Burton-born frontman is well aware he hasn't proved anything yet.

He said: "Friendlies don't really count for anything -- they are more of a warm-up -- but hopefully I'll take my form into the season itself and carry on through.

"They are competitive to a certain extent, but at the end of the day you don't look at the goalscorers' charts and see your name there.

"It starts to count from this Saturday when it's all on the line."

The striker has already formed a fledgling partnership with Michael Ricketts up front, and the pair will be hoping to reprise that combination at Boundary Park tomorrow.

Davies -- who prefers an all-action style of play -- cited Ricketts' influence on him, and revealed he isn't setting any targets on the eve of the new season:

"I like to not give defenders a second, because if you pester people little mistakes are always going to occur," he explained.

"Out of every couple you're always going to get a chance to win the ball, and then either go through yourself or help someone else out.

"I'm not setting any targets -- I will do my best and give 100% every game and see what happens.

"Playing up front with Michael Ricketts is a help.  He's a good player who gives you good hints and tips and boosts your confidence.

"Michael is a great person to learn from -- he's been there and done it and that makes you listen to him that little bit more."

John Sheridan has urged his side to start well, and their League One journey begins against Swansea tomorrow.

Davies is part of the Wales connection, having won three caps for John Toshack's senior side, and will be looking to get the upper hand against one of his former international team-mates.

He said: "Swansea are a good side and I know one or two of their players, and they will definitely be up there this season.

"Yes, they've lost players including Lee Trundle, but they've signed players such as Jason Scotland who I like.

"I know one boy who's just joined them after leaving Fulham who I grew up with in the Wales fold from the under-15's -- Matthew Collins.  Hopefully he'll play so I try to get one over on him."