Trials Reach Closing Stages

John Brown spoke to www.clydefc.co.uk this morning for a further update on the pre-season activities, as the trials process nears its conclusion:-

“As I mentioned last week we are continuing to trim the squad and that will continue at pace this week.

“I hope that in the next week or so I can start giving the website the names of the players, but until people are formally signed up I want to play my cards close to my chest. I appreciate that this is frustrating for fans but we are vulnerable to other teams with bigger budgets coming in at the last minute to tempt a player away.

“Of the current batch of players, some are keeping their options open as they interest other clubs. However I’m confident of initially getting six to sign, with possibly two or three others.”

With open and closed door friendlies on the horizon, John confirmed that the early matches would see the under-19 squad, promoted from under-17 level last term, feature in the team until a full squad was assembled:-

“Pre-season has been different from the norm, but a lot of the players have a good core fitness and we are now raising the standard. Neil Lennon contacted me and we are going to play Celtic Reserves in a closed door match at Lennoxtown on Saturday. A further match against Queen’s Park is planned for Monday before our friendly with Thistle at Broadwood.

“The squad will also be supplemented by several of our under-19 side who have done extremely well in the training sessions.

“I’m hopeful of bringing in other players during August, as not all the players released from senior clubs will get signed up. That will give us further opportunity to add and strengthen right up until the transfer window closes.”

John concluded, “Of course it has not been ideal, but finances have dictated this and we have to get on with it. One thing is certain though and that is the determination and ambition shown by the players we have here.

“One example is a lad who has personally bought out his contract with his current club in order to get the chance with us. It is that spirit and commitment that I’m sure the fans will appreciate and respond to as the season gets underway.”