Talking point

Montrose haven’t had it easy in preseason, but it’s about to get even harder. With the Europa League sides not in the competition yet, Hibs away is arguably the most difficult assignment a lower league club could get. out, leaving Petrie with a match-day squad of 14 or 15.

Petrie,who is hoping to sign two or three more players before the transfer window shuts, added: “Pre-season has been a bit stop-start with injuries. In our final one we finished with 10 men, four of whom were under-17.

“We’ve had tough tests but they have been worthwhile.

“Our big objective is obviously August, but we’ll be hoping for a couple of good results in the cup before then.”

Meanwhile, Neil Lennon is predicting big things from his side this season.

He said: “I was never a lover of preseason when I played, and as a manager I never paid too much attention to the results either. It was all about getting the players fit. But I’ve been pleased so far, the players have done very well.

“We know what is ahead of us and we know what’s at stake in the Betfred Cup. We want to go as far in the competition as we can, if not win it. So Montrose is the first step towards that and we want to get off to a decent start.”

Lennon confirmed defender Efe Ambrose has finally reported back to the club, two days late. The Nigerian blamed his delay on a “personal matter” and Lennon says it has now been resolved.

However, he will not feature today.