While many of the playing staff enjoy their time on the beach, announcements of new arrivals and contract renewals has give us some idea of the development of next season’s squad. The picture is much clearer than at this time last year.
It can hardly have come as a surprise to learn that Dan Twardzik has been signed. His emergency spell with us last winter delivered a five game winning streak and there’s no doubt that his two year deal will give him a great opportunity to establish his career as a top level ‘keeper. Craig Reid joined us in January and immediately became a fixture in the right back position. His consistency in that slot (and his goal in the final game!) earned him a shot at a long term contract. His reward is a two year deal.
Is there a pot of gold under the East Stand?
Reid will have McManus and Hammell as colleagues in the back line as both have agreed to stay on for a further two years. We have no firm news yet of Hutchinson’s intentions but the general expectation is that he’ll be making plans elsewhere. Both Lasley and Ainsworth have offers under consideration.
Our midfield will miss the sparkle that a fit McFadden can offer but we do have a new player in that area of the pitch. Josh Law is a 24 year old right sided midfielder/defender who joins us after seven years with Alfreton Town in the fifth tier of the English game. He’ll be familiar with Fir Park following a few training stints and visits as he watched his brother Nicky. The view from Derbyshire is that we have added good underated player to the squad, let’s hope he fulfils his potential.
The end of May is the formal closure date of players’ contracts but this month also sees the departure of Leeann Dempster to relegation bound Hibs. Alan Burrows will take on some of her responsibilities as General Manager. The knock on is that the club is looking to appoint a Media manager. The club posted details here with a comprehensive list of duties. It’s good to see the post having open advertisement and with our strong positive image it should attract interest.
This weekend (Saturday 31 May) gives supporters the last chance to buy their season ticket at the early bird discount price. The recent news about the club’s financial position underlines the importance of those sales. For those not already signed up to the Well Society it’s another chance to fill out the paperwork and join via direct debit.
Upcoming dates – SPFL fixtures released June 18, Europa League draw June 23
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