Football Season Guide

Over the course of the summer, there have been bold changes at Albion Rovers. The Coatbridge side dispensed with the services of manager Darren Young and his coaching staff, while there was a dramatic shift on the playing front. Rovers' small squad, which often failed to have a full seven substitutes last season, saw no fewer than 12 players depart. Among these were some of their better performers including goalkeeper Ross Stewart, the striker by the same name – both of who joined St Mirren – and striker Ryan Wallace. Additionally, Rovers also saw solid central defensive pairing Mick and Ross Dunlop join Stenhousemuir. The club's ability to sign players has been limited. Alan Trouten represents something of a coup from Brechin, as does Sean Higgins. Both of these players have been typical additions from manager Brian Kerr, who has opted for experience first and foremost. Of the nine players who have been signed from entirely outside the club this summer, four are over 30 and all but two are aged 27 or over. The spine of the team will be particularly replete with experience, as Graeme Holmes and Scott McLaughlin will play in the centre - the latter having struggled with Clyde last term. Ross Perry also arrives from Clyde to play in the centre of the defence, though he has failed to convince since leaving Rangers. Jason Marr in that same area looks a good addition, though. Additionally, goalkeeper Graham Bowman has struggled for form when thrust into first-team matches in the past. Their results in the League Cup were not especially impressive, though at least they did beat Lowland League side East Kilbride impressively away from home. It will be difficult to know what to expect of Kerr's men. Under Young, they were well organised and defensively focused but in the early weeks of the new era, there appears to be more attacking intent about them. Long term, though, they look a flimsy squad that will be reliant on experience.