Open door trial for Jags
East Kilbride Thistle boss Iain Diack says there will be an open door policy at the Showpark for potential stars to boost their ranks.
The Jags boss is looking to the future with the West of Scotland League campaign and has asked four players to join them for preseason training when allowed back.
However, there has been 10 players who have asked for a shot to impress the boss and Diack admits he won’t say no to anyone wanting their chance as he looks to rebuild the squad.
He said: “I’ve spoken to four players about coming in for preseason when we are allowed to start back.
“We’re very keen to bring in some new faces and I feel like these players can strengthen the team a lot.
“There is about 10 or 11 guys who have asked if they can come in and have a chance to join us.
“We don’t pay players so we are open to people putting themselves forward and to give them an opportunity.
“We will probably be the only club in our conference next season who are not paying players so we are not in a position to turn down someone that can improve us or provide competition for a position.
“I’m happy to give guys a chance. I would have done it at Sauchie Juniors [his former club] as well and for me it’s about finding ways to add to the competition for places.
“We will aim to get the best players we possibly can.”
Diack has been busy re-signing some of last season’s squad for the new campaign and has been impressed by their dedication so far.
He continued: “We have only had four or five training sessions and the one game before the season was called off but I was impressed by the work rate these guys have shown.
“I want to help the guys push on and play at as high a level as they can. That’s the big thing for me, and that will help East Kilbride Thistle in the long-run as well.”
The gaffer reckons Thistle can shock a few people in their WOSFL conference when the new era kicks off.
He added: “All you want as a manager is to be able to focus on the games in front of you, so I’m glad things are sorted with the conferences.
“I’m not saying we are going to go out and beat every team in our league, but I think we will pull off a few surprises. We’ll go for it in games and be competitive.”