Getting Ready To Begin

Clyde manager Jim Duffy is in the final days of preparations prior to the start of pre-season training on Tuesday and he spoke exclusively to www.clydefc.co.uk:-

“When I accepted the offer to become Clyde manager, my vision was that as a response to the position the club found itself in we had to become a development club; that is gain a reputation for developing and coaching players to improve themselves and in that way initiate a gradual but sustained improvement in the club’s overall position.

“As we begin to compile the squad that objective remains intact. I would envisage that in the end, of the players that will sign, probably 50% will be 21 or under. For example, we have another five or so players invited to join the squad for training on Tuesday, the oldest of whom is 21 so that is the reality of where we are.

“I’m pleased to say also coming on Tuesday is another couple of players from our under 19 squad; Jordan McDonald and Ross McKinnon and they will get an opportunity to show if they too can make the step up that Drew, Jack and Daniel already have.

“What I am also looking for is some, what I would call, ‘good pros’ who can lead by example and carry on the coaching and the teaching on the park to add to and complement what is said off it. We need this approach to move forward.

“However, I want people to be assured I want to build a squad that is competitive. Players are just not going to be signed because they are young or because they are available it is about guys proving that they care for Clyde and are committed, enthusiastic and good enough to take up the opportunity that is before them.

“As we get the squad together we need to ensure that we get the right balance between exuberance, energy and knowledge of how to get the job done.

“The fixtures released today immediately put us against the two favourites, Peterhead and Alloa. Those games will give us a benchmark on where we are and where we need to be, the work for that challenge begins on Tuesday.”