04-07-2025
Rutherglen Glencairn co-boss left with rebuild job after summer exodus, but has 'added quality'
Joe Pryce is confident that he has strengthened his squad ahead of their return to the West of Scotland Premier Division
A summer exodus has left Rutherglen Glencairn with a big turnaround as they prepare for life in the West of Scotland Premier Division.
Co-boss Joe Pryce says he has the nucleus of his squad, but admits he's surprised by how many players left at the end of a promotion-winning season, including goalkeeper Chris White.
But Pryce is confident that he has brought in quality players, which the club expects to start announcing in the coming days.
'We lost quite a few of last season's squad, it's almost in double figures, now, that have moved on,' said Pryce. 'It's a big turnaround for us.
'But the nucleus of the squad – eight or nine players – is still there, so we're looking to build around that.
'We're not going to have a huge squad, probably around 18 or 19.
'The players we're bringing in are certainly going to add quality. We've got a bit of youth, and a bit of experience. We're looking to add good legs in the midfield, to help us out.
'We need a new goalkeeper, because ours moved on, but these are things we're working on, and they're not easy to get in, because we're a bit picky.
'We want to make sure we get the right ones in, that's why we're taking our time, but I'm in no doubts that we'll get there, and we will be ready for the first game of the season.'
Glens have been priced out of the market for some players, indicating what they will be up against next term.
Pryce said: 'The finance that is being offered by other clubs is quite simply ludicrous, for our level, but it's what they're paying.
'I don't blame the players at all – if somebody is silly enough to offer you that kind of finance, take it.
'We've just got to look after ourselves, in that respect. We have our set budget, we'll work within that, and we'll make sure we're competitive in that top division.'
Glencairn have announced three pre-season friendlies, starting at Thorn Athletic on Wednesday, July 9, Petershill on July 12, and Glenrothes on Saturday, July 19, the 50th anniversary of their Scottish Junior Cup final.
Pryce said: 'There's no reason for them all being away from home, it's just those are the dates available.
'We have a couple of bounce games in-between as well, to help us out.'
