Arbroath

Arbroath were the media’s favourites last season as the part-timers came close to clinching the Championship title only to lose out to Kilmarnock. Inverness then eliminated them in the play-offs. Arbroath spent 11 consecutive weeks at the top, but a defeat at Kilmarnock in the run-in proved crucial. Too many draws accounted for their failure (W17 D14 L5). The core of Arbroath’s squad remains although they have lost the services of some significant loan players. Liam Henderson and Chris Hamilton will be missed in central defence as back-up for O’Brien and Little. Jack Hamilton’s goals will be missed in attack as will the flair of Craig Wighton. With a settled squad already in place, Arbroath have made few additions. Vastly experienced midfielder Keaghan Jacobs steps down to part-time football from Livingston. Cammy Gill provides goalkeeping competition for Derek Gaston. Attacking midfielder Daniel Fosu has signed a short deal and has already scored a stunning goal in pre-season. Former Aberdeen youth striker Kieran Shanks is hoping for an impact after 30 goals in 44 appearances for Inverurie Locos in the Highland League. Can Arbroath repeat the unexpected success of last season? There’s been minimal changes, confidence abounds, and they fear nobody. If they can avoid injuries to key players another tussle at the top end of the table is a strong possibility.