But before they return we may be closer to knowing our first Europa League opponents. Bangor City will be in Garðabær in Iceland to play Stjarnan on Thursday and a decisive result may help our preparations both on and off the pitch.
For this return to the Algarve the squad has a familiar look. A year ago the manager was engaged in a huge rebuilding exercise following the loss of the majority of his first team. Still, there are changes.
We’ll see no more of Hutchinson, McFadden and Anier but there are new men keen to wear claret and amber this season. Twardzik and Law may be new signings but both have experience of the Fir Park setup. The young ‘keeper made a great impression when he made five winning appearances during his emergency loan spell last winter while our new midfielder made his introduction at some of last season’s practice sessions.
A well known face will be among the photo shoots in the sun. It seems David Clarkson has been offered training facilities at the club and he’ll be with the team this week. His spells with the Bristol clubs are over and he is a free agent. Anier’s departure has created what may be a convenient opening for both parties.
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