SOUTHAMPTON’S Peter Waterfield insists his best days are still ahead of him as he targets a return to the Olympic podium at London 2012.

The 31-year-old diver, pictured, claimed silver at Athens 2004 in the 10m platform synchro with partner Leon Taylor and eight years on expectations of a medal are just as high with Tom Daley in tow.

A new British record of 475.77 en-route to the national title in Sheffield last month reaffirmed their ability to perform when the pressure is on and with 15,000 expected to fill out the Aquatics Centre at the Games that temperament will be tested to its fullest.

Not that Waterfield thought it was ever in doubt – he has pedigree for gold on these shores having snatched the 10m individual title at the 2002 Commonwealth Games in Manchester and he insists he will thrive under the spotlight.

“To compete at a home Olympics will be a dream for everyone, and it definitely gives us an edge,” he said.

“To have 15,000 people screaming you on will be amazing and the whole squad are looking forward to it.

“We performed well in the Nationals and set a new personal best and a new British record, so we’re definitely on form.

“We just need to hold it together on the day and we could maybe come home with a medal.

“We came third in the Worlds in February so that proves we can compete with the best."

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