Settled striker Bob still tries to catch the eye

However, the Bairns frontman says his aim was still the same – to catch gaffer Peter Houston’s eye.

The pressure had been on during his last trip to Johnstown with the Bairns where he was still unsure of his Falkirk future.

But the ex-Motherwell forward earned a deal and was on hand to welcome some of the new faces to the club this year.

“I’m a year on now, but the pressure was on last year when I was on trial, the boys made me welcome but I was trying to impress the gaffer, every day.

“I’m still doing that nowbut I’m just a bit more relaxed this time around,” he told Heraldsport.

McHugh did have a real relaxing break – away in Tenerife with girlfriend Jemma – and added: “It was good to recharge the batteries for a few nights but pulling up in the car park at the stadium – it felt like we’d barely been away since the end of last season!

“Ireland was brilliant. We got a chance to know the new signings a bit better and to just get back with the boys after a good season last time it was good to do.

“The game time and training was important. I’m feeling good for it, and just eager to start the new season.”

Falkirk meet Albion Rovers on Saturday in a friendly at Cliftonhill.

The Bairns have also set prices for the midweek Betfred cup match with Elgin; £10 adult and £5 concessions.