Rendell struggled to break into the first team following his controversial move from local rivals Cambridge United last January. He started just three matches in the League Two promotion push, scoring three goals.

But the 21 year-old has netted in the last two friendly wins over Liverpool and Stevenage, form that has him dreaming of a start in the first competitive match of the season at Southend on Saturday, August 9.

Rendell said: "I'm desperate to play against Southend and I believe I have something different to offer. I haven't got the pace of Aaron Mclean or Craig Mackail-Smith, but I bring other qualities to the team.

"I felt I did okay in League Two and I'm confident I can make the step up. I've formed a great understanding with Aaron in the last couple of friendlies, while playing with Craig is easy because he works so hard.

"I hope I can do enough in the remaining friendlies to give the manager a problem."

The player's ambition will be difficult to realise as Mclean and Mackail-Smith scored 52 goals between them last term, although Posh boss Darren Ferguson has identified Rendell as one he expects to improve this season.

Rendell is likely to take some part in tomorrow's Maunsell Cup Final at Blue Square Premier League club Rushden & Diamonds (3pm) when Posh will be seeking a fifth straight win.

Ferguson believes his side are more advanced in terms of fitness and general preparation than at this stage last season.

Ferguson said: "I'm very happy with the players since they returned for pre-season training. They look very sharp, very eager and they are enjoying being back at work.

"It's important not to get carried away with pre-season. Our form now will mean nothing if we lose our first couple of League matches, but we are ticking along nicely and gaining confidence with each win.

"I felt we were excellent at Stevenage on Tuesday and it's a similar challenge tomorrow. Rushden have a lot of new players and they will be keen to impress so I'm expecting a tough challenge."

Pacy Fisher Athletic winger Shaun Batt continues his Posh trial tomorrow.

Midfielder Paul Coutts will also feature after Ferguson indicated that he is keen to make his move from Highland League side Cove Rangers a permanent one.

New full-back Russell Martin could return to action at Nene Park after recovering from a knee injury and winger Chris Whelpdale is back in the squad after missing the Stevenage match because of illness.

Long-term absentees Sergio Torres and Jamie Day will again be missing.

If the match is level after 90 minutes, a penalty shoot-out will take place.