Rovers raring to go on return to action

Albion Rovers are back in training ahead of the League Two campaign resuming this weekend.

After three long months, clubs were given the green light to return last week and Rovers boss Brian Reid has acted quickly to bring in four new players in time for Saturday’s trip to Stenhousemuir.

The Cliftonhill club have snapped up ex-hearts star Ryan Stevenson on a deal until the end of the season, along with fellow ex-ayr United and Queen’s Park midfielder Jamie Mckernon, as well as former Cowdenbeath defender David Cox and on loan Troon stopper James Mcgowan.

Stevenson could prove a vital signing in their bid to climb the table and Reid says his relationship with the attacker, whom he has kept in touch with since their spell at Ayr United in the 2006/07 season, was key to bringing him in.

Reid said: “It’s good to get some experience in because it was badly needed.

“Hopefully with their knowledge and everything else they can help the younger boys and do well for us.

“I had Ryan Stevenson way back when I was Ayr United manager, so

Stevo and I have kept in touch and we’ve got a good relationship.

“He’s a top player, a very good professional and a very good person.

“I know he’s coming here in his twilight years at 36, but he’s still a very fit guy and he’s a very good addition to the squad.

“Jamie Mckernon is another one I had at Ayr, in on loan from St Mirren when he was a youngster. I know the type of player and person he is so he’ll be a good asset.

“David Cox isn’t one I’ve worked with before, but I have managed against him and I know the kind of qualities he will bring and we’ve added James in their to strengthen the defence as well.”

Defenders Paul Gallacher and Mark Sideserf will also be looking to get their first taste of action this weekend, having both joined from Pollok in January just as the suspension kicked in.

After so long on the sidelines, Reid reckons it will be a huge lift for his players to get back out there.

He added: “I’ve spoken before about the mental health issues for the players and I think this will give them a release from that, and get back to some sort of normality again.

“We look forward to hopefully finish the season strongly and climbing the table.”