New Albion Rovers boss Steven Saunders has made his first signings since taking over at Cliftonhill, but has admitted that the co-operation agreement with Premiership side Kilmarnock is unlikely to be renewed for the upcoming Lowland League West season.
The former Motherwell defender replaced Sandy Clark last month and has now unveiled his first recruits, while conceding that the arrangement which brought players like Samuel Duruh and Grant Marchant from Rugby Park last term is probably off the table.
First Signings Announced
Midfielder Conor McLaughlin has joined from fellow Lowland side Kilwinning Rangers, while forwards Tony Garth and Adam McMillan have extended their stays for another year. Saunders expects more arrivals but admits patience may be required.
Speaking to Lanarkshire Live Sport, Saunders said: "It has been good so far. We are probably a couple of weeks behind in terms of where we wanted to be with signings so it is a wee bit slow on that front at the moment."
Co-operation Agreement Unlikely
Saunders explained that the changeover in the dugout at Cliftonhill has impacted the co-operation deal. "I don't think the Kilmarnock co-operation agreement is going to go ahead now. I have good connections with the club and we may get a couple of players on loan, but because we are a couple of weeks down the line, players who were of potential interest to us have ended up going elsewhere, so I am looking elsewhere for a co-op agreement."
He added: "There are a couple of things that could happen but we will just need to wait and see."
Preseason and Fixtures
Saunders has trialists in and will assess them in friendlies against St Mirren and Glenafton. He said: "It is always good to see players in training, but the real thing is playing games and seeing them in action. I'm looking forward to the games coming up."
McLaughlin, 28, expressed his delight at joining: "I’m delighted; it’s one I’ve been looking forward to since I spoke to the manager and John. I’ve had a few options, and I felt this one was the best one for me."
Rovers will begin their Lowland League campaign away to Cumnock on Saturday, July 25.
