No pressure here says Violet gaffer

VIOLET boss Ralph Henderson insists the club are under no pressure to bounce straight back to the Premier League.

Last season’s disappointing campaign ended with the Pansies relegated as they picked up only four wins in 28 league outings.

However, despite being quickly installed among the favourites for next season’s North League title, Henderson insists it’s more important to get the Glenesk outfit back on a level footing.

He said: “A lot of people are saying we need to go straight back up but we are not thinking like that.

“The committee haven’t put any pressure on me to win the league and what we really need at this point is a bit of stability.

“We’ll have several young boys in the squad and we’ll look to introduce them as the season progresses.

“Andy Heggie has taken over as club president and he has been a great help. “He’ll also be assisting with the coaching.” Several new faces have been recruited as Henderson attempts to freshen things up.

Three have come from Newburgh — striker pair Gavin Thomson and Steven Harris, and midfielder Cammy Black.

Defender Bradie Heggie and midfield man Johnny McBride have come from North End, defender Ross McLeary arrives from Lochee United, while left-sided midfielder Blair White has joined on a season-long loan from Broughty Athletic.

Also among the new signings is Mitchell Hay who steps up from youth football.

The new men have been involved in a “punishing” pre-season schedule but respite is on the horizon with a first friendly fixed up for Saturday against amateur outfit Menzieshill Rovers (the venue has still to be decided).

Other friendlies arranged are: Broughty Athletic (a, 18/7), Lochee United (h, 22/7), Dundee United (h, Dundee United U/20s), Menzieshill AFC (h, 29/7).

Meanwhile, the club have placed striker Connor McLeod on the transfer list at his own request. Interested parties should contact Ralph Henderson on 07922 300749 or Andy Heggie on 07737 521024.