Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
Loy can still be a big player for Dee
RORY Loy has been handed the chance to resurrect his Dundee career by new Dens Park boss Neil McCann.
Striker Loy spent the second half of last season on loan at Championship St Mirren, where his five goals helped the Buddies stave off the threat of relegation.
It was widely expected that switch would become permanent over the summer but the 29-year-old was in the group that reported for work when Dundee’s pre-season build-up kicked off late last week.
And his new gaffer has stressed so far as he is concerned, the former Falkirk man is just like any other member of his squad.
“Rory is back with the group. He’s gone out on l oan l ast year for whatever reason but I’m more than happy for him to come in here and work,” said Neil.
“It’s a clean slate for everybody and he’ll get his chance to show what he can do just like everyone else.”
Meanwhile, after talks between the clubs, midfielder Nicky Low’s loan stay at Derry City has been extended to the end of the League of Ireland season in November.
On Thursday, the former Aberdeen man will line up against Danes FC Midtjylland in a Europa League first-round qualifier and the extension of his deal in Derry is being seen as a step closer to a permanent deal for him on the other side of the Irish Sea.
“Nicky has enjoyed a successful period over in Ireland and Kenny Shiels wants to keep him. There is dialogue ongoing and it would be unfair to comment further just now,” added Neil.
As well as getting his players ready for the new campaign, the manager’s focus is very much on adding to his three signings so far in Scott Allan, Roarie Deacon and Lewis Spence.
Stressing he is happy with those arrivals and the players already on the books, Neil is looking to add quality rather than quantity.
“The signings I make have to be about quality,” he added.
“We have four or five in mind . You keep irons in the fire because you can think you are down the road to something and it doesn’t happen.”
Neil has been delighted with the condition of the squad as they’ve got down to some serious work in training this week.
“They are looking good. That’s what you expect from players these day. They’ve had a programme to follow while they’ve been off.”