Football Season Guide

It was another season of underachievement for Elgin City, who went backwards under manager Gavin Price. The Highlanders have been perennial underachievers since joining the Football League in 2000. There aren’t many positive signs of a concerted challenge for promotion in their 20th season in the fourth tier of Scottish Football. Price’s biggest problem is a defence which leaks like a sieve and there are already problems looming with long-serving defender Darryl McHardy set for a spell on the sidelines with a dislocated shoulder. McHardy is part of the spine of the team; alongside midfield playmaker Brian Cameron and striker Shane Sutherland. Cameron will also miss the start of the new season with a knee injury but there is a much-needed boost in the return of Sutherland, having left to spend the second half of last season with Champions Peterhead. Price appears to have a tricky relationship with Sutherland, who has yet to rediscover his goalscoring touch following a year-long absence with a new injury. He will look to form a partnership with striker Ross Dingwall, who has returned on a permanent deal from neighbours Ross County this summer. Euan Spark looks like a capable replacement following the loss of Jordan Lowdon at left-back but Price still needs to strengthen his defence, whilst also bringing in a goalkeeper to challenge youngster Tom McHale.