Squad Taking Shape
The start of the 2011-12 season is drawing ever closer and Jim Duffy spoke to www.clydefc.co.uk, as he prepared to bring further additions to the Bully Wee squad.
Jim commented, “I’ve said before that we will have a young squad and nothing has changed in that regard but what that doesn’t mean is that we will lack in skill, energy or commitment for the club. The younger players coming in will be learning all the time but I believe that they have potential to succeed.
“First team senior football is completely different from the under-19s and it is about learning to cope with that change as quickly as you can and adapting to the greater pressures in order to make sure you hold on to a first team place. Some will close that gap quickly others may need more time to develop but I believe investing our time in developing young players is the right approach for Clyde to take as we build the club up once more.”
Jim continued, “Of course, we need a balance of experience particularly down the spine of the team and I’m continuing to seek to add to the squad and get players in. Chic and I can coach from the sidelines but at certain times you need that experience and knowledge on the park, to keep talking to the players and lead by example.”
Jim confirmed that he has verbally agreed deals with six players and introduced the players to www.clydefc.co.uk…
“Kris Irvine, 19, is primarily a right-back who was formerly with Dundee United he can deliver a ball well and it may well be that he will develop into a midfielder in the future as he will give us width out on the right.
“Liam Cusack (pictured on homepage), 21, forward ex-Dumbarton and Annan. Liam has good pace and energy and offers something different up front for us.
“Ryan Kane, 20, midfielder ex-Morton. Ryan has done well during pre-season and has the ability to take players on and deliver into the box and create chances for others.
“John Neil, 24, ex-East Stirling and Queen’s Park. John is a versatile player who can play in several positions he will work hard for the team and that is important in a small squad.”
As well as that quartet, Jim also informed the official website that he had agreed terms with two more familiar faces; Pat Scullion has agreed terms and will join on a permanent basis having been on loan at the club from Stenhousemuir last season.
Finally, Jim is also in the process of adding Lee Sharp, 36, at left-back. “Lee is no stranger to Broadwood in that he coaches the under-19s and, as I said, we need good professionals around the club to help the boys on and off the park.”
Jim concluded, “The squad is taking shape now but as I said, I’m obviously still looking to add to it and we will continue to work off the park with that aim in mind.”