Graham Dorrans' permanent arrival will spark a summer battle to land a key place in Norwich City's engine room.
The midfielder cut his ties with West Brom earlier this week after signing a two-year deal and his full-time arrival further increases the embarrassment of riches at Alex Neil's disposal.
Gary O'Neil is one of at least six players now fighting it out for a prized central role and the 32-year-old believes he and his team-mates will need to hit top gear when City get their Premier League preparations underway.
O'Neil said: 'I had a good little spell (of games) and then unfortunately I broke my toe just after the gaffer got the job. While I was out the lads went on a fantastic run. I was desperate to play but I told the gaffer I completely understood as the lads have been brilliant.
'There have been no complaints on my part. I've just been happy to be a part of it, influence it when I could, and hopefully – from a fresh start with no injuries – during pre-season I can fight for a place.'
Bradley Johnson's emergence as a left-sided operator has eased the congestion but with Wes Hoolahan preferring an advanced central role – as well as Vadis Odjidja-Ofoe and Tony Andreu looking to kickstart their City careers – the competition for a starting berth looks like it's going to be fiercer than ever.
Appearances
Jonny Howson: 39 (2 as sub)
Wes Hoolahan: 40 (10)
Alex Tettey: 39 (2)
Gary O'Neil: 24 (12)
Vadis Odjidja-Ofoe: 6 (4)
Graham Dorrans 18 (5)
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