ANDY COULD BE REALLY HANDY
United will run the rule over Irish trialist striker
Ian McCall reckons Ayr United could get two players for the price of one if Irish trialist Andy O’Connell proves his worth.
The Somerset boss, who wants at least four more signings, is homing in on a top flight striker.
McCall will give all his squad a run- out when they head to Gretna on Saturday and Sunday to defend the Raydale Tournament.
But he reckons towering O’Connell, 23, who has played for Cork City, Galway United and Cobh Ramblers, is worth another shot after the 2- 0 weekend win at Stenhousemuir.
McCall said: “I really like the look of him. His movement and touch are good and the good thing is he can play centre- back as well as striker.
“He has even played midfield and would offer us a different option if we choose to bring him in.
“He has definitely got something and is a great type of boy who comes from a sporting family – his brother plays for Celtic.
“He lacks fitness but it was his first game for 2 ½ months and he only joined us for training last week. I will have another look at him but even if I do sign him I would still try to bring in another two strikers.”
Ayr may have to go to a tribunal to settle a fee for new keeper Jordan Hart after Annan knocked back two offers.
Young defender Craig McCracken has signed for next season but is set to be loaned to a League One or League Two club for the first six months.
And his progress along with that of Craig McGuffie and Mick Wardrope is hailed as another feather in the cap for the United Academy.
McCall said: “I would probably have kept Ryan Nisbet if we had stayed in League One but I don’t think he is quite ready for the Championship.
“I wanted to keep Jordan Preston and Craig Moore but Jordan chose to stay in England.
“He did very well for us and I wish him all the luck for the future.”
Moore is now back at Motherwell but with Scott McDonald knocking back a move to Hibs, the Fir Park men may be top heavy in strikers. And that would alert Ayr if ‘ Well opted for another loan.
McCall wants another defender, a genuine wide quick player and two goal scoring strikers.
And his proven record in the loan market means that it is another area he will revisit.
Ayr open their defence of the Raydale Tournament against South Shields at Gretna on Saturday ( 3.30pm). They will then play either Gretna or Queen of the South on Sunday.
He can play centre- back as well as a striker Ian McCall