"We have laid ourselves a decent foundation in terms of fitness but the boys also linked together well on occasions. We are progressing as we hoped we would," he said after the 1-1 draw against Everton at the City Ground.
"We saw a real improvement in what we did off the ball, but we need to be stronger on that this season. I also think we will see an improvement with what we can do on the ball as well.
"Nothing is spectacular, but we are pleased overall and are getting closer to being prepared for August 10."