Work In Progress

Graham Roberts was in a confident mood as he reflected on the work achieved so far as he continues to prepare the Bully Wee for the new season. “Joe and I are delighted at the progress to date and the way things are shaping up. I genuinely think the fans will be surprised at the fitness levels the players have achieved and that is what pre-season is about.”

Clyde have steered through two closed door matches undefeated but Roberts is not fussed. “At this moment in time I don’t care about results. What I want to see is effort and shape and Joe and I are happy where the players are at present.”

“Against Dumbarton,” Graham continued, “we were battered for the first half hour but we came through that and played well. Against Falkirk, I know Yogi was unhappy with his team’s display but it was pleasing that he acknowledged our fitness and performance.”

Speaking about tomorrow’s clash, the Clyde boss confirmed that it would be a tough task. “Motherwell will be a further step up for us. They will be fitter and stronger but I’m confident the players are up to the task.”

The Motherwell game has been overshadowed by the weekend visit of Manchester United and Graham is of course looking forward to the tie with the Manchester giants, “Joe has known for a while about who was coming up but we have no fears and it will be excellent for the players to experience it.”

It has been a busy time for the manager as he tries to confirm next season’s squad; again Roberts is happy. “We are close to finalising deals with a number of players and will hopefully be in a position to announce them shortly. It will be a young squad and probably 99% of it Scottish. Joe apart, the oldest player will be twenty-three. Fans tell me, the directors have said it too, ‘we need experience’ but in my opinion if you are good enough you are old enough. Too many times you see clubs full of older players playing in matches that are of a terrible standard. I say again Joe and I are happy with what we’ve got.”

Roberts’ research has not been limited to scouting for new talent, “My time is also taken up now watching other teams and assessing next season’s opposition. You can be assured we will be doing our homework and if it means driving to Dingwall and then Stranraer then that’s what I’ll do to make sure we are ready for the new season.”

Fans will get their first opportunity to see Graham Robert’s squad in action when Clyde take on Motherwell at Broadwood tomorrow night; kick off 7.30pm.