Wednesday 27th July 2016
GAFFER Stevie Aitken remains optimistic that additions will be made to Dumbarton’s squad ahead of the new league campaign.
And there is the possibility of new recruits being involved in Saturday’s final Betfred Cup sectional match against Peterhead.
The manager admitted that he shares the fans’ frustration at the lack of numbers which has seen his squad stretched to the limit over the League Cup section.
But he is hopeful of welcoming back skipper Darren Barr in Saturday’s clash.
Stevie said: “We are talking to a lot of players. We are as frustrated as the supporters are, but all I can do at this stage is ask for patience.
“I am certain that in the coming weeks, there will be movements. We are hopeful of one or two things happening before we play Peterhead on Saturday. If not, then in time for the first league game at Dunfermline.
“We know that we are well short of bodies and just have to keep working away. It is a difficult market to get the right players from.
“Deals have been agreed and we knew that loan players would become available about now. Clubs were good to us last season and we are confident they will be again.
“Darren will train this week with the physio with a view to hopefully playing some part on Saturday. It’s been a frustrating time for him and for Jamie Ewings, who picked up the same injury.
“Frazer Wright also had to play with an injury on Saturday, so it’s been a hard time for everybody.”
Stevie also confirmed that a strong side will be sent to Clydebank on Tuesday for a friendly match with the local junior club.
Before that comes the final Betfred Cup sectional match at home to Peterhead. Sons have pride at stake against a Blue Toon side who will win the group if they are victors over 90 minutes.
And Stevie, who will visit Tannadice on Sunday to watch Sons’ next two opponents, Dunfermline and Dundee United, play each other, is determined to end on a positive note.
He added: “The Clydebank game will be an opportunity to get some players back out on to the pitch, and hopefully to help bed some new players into the squad.
“It comes at a good time for us, as we are working 24 hours a day on building the squad.
“But we want a victory over Peterhead on Saturday as well to give the place a lift. The players are feeling the effects of a difficult time over the past fortnight, but there have been circumstances which have led to it.
“It would be good to end our campaign with a positive performance and result and if we do that we can look forward to the league campaign starting.”
Andy Galloway