As it’s been a few weeks since our last competitive game, we thought it was worth catching up with Manager Allan Johnston for a quick update on what’s been happening. 

“Although we haven’t been playing it has been busier than ever, especially with the transfer window open. We have been dealt a double blew so far since the window opened, after losing Faissal El Bakhtaoui we have now lost goal-keeper Robby McCrorie. 

Robby’s departure has been a bit of a shock to us as there was no indication that it was on the cards and everyone was happy with the arrangement. He has been fantastic for us since he arrived and Rangers were happy with the way he was progressing. We didn’t expect to lose him halfway through the season unless there was a crisis at Ibrox and he had to go back to play so to lose him now is a massive blow. However, like most loan deals there was a clause in his contract that he could be recalled and I can understand why Rangers want to give him the chance to play in the Premiership. 

 Like Robby, Faissal had established himself within the squad and had become a key member of the team. But there was always the possibility of him moving if the opportunity came along and unfortunately for us that is what has happened. His performances attracted attention and the lure of a return to his home country proved too exciting for him and we couldn’t stand in his way.

We thank both players for their efforts and they depart with our best wishes. 

For us it is now about moving on and trying to find players that we can bring into enhance the team and complement and add to the players we already have. I can assure you that we are actively trying and have looked and spoken to a few players. We know we are light on numbers and I would ideally like to bring in at least 3 players before the window closes. They have to be the right fit for us and of course within our budget. Hopefully we will be able to have some good news before Saturday’s game against Alloa.

On the park, as we haven’t played for the best part of three weeks, we arranged a friendly against Rangers at the weekend. It was important that the players got some game time under their belt to keep them ticking over as we prepare to start a run of important fixtures. Rangers fielded a very strong side that included Alfredo Morelos, Allan McGregor and Ryan Kent to name a few, so it was a good test and worthwhile.  

A few of the boys were also involved in yesterday’s reserve game away at Kilmarnock. Michael Paton, Lewis Kidd, Jack Hamilton and Gary Oliver all got a run out. Jack scored along with young Ross Irving who scored a double so that will boost their confidence”.