Central Park - News Review

As season 2024/25 now nears its official close with summer holidays imminent for many players, managers and coaches, we can provide a general update for our supporters.

Paul McLean is of course now ensconced as our new manager and his coaching team will include Graeme Nisbet as assistant manager and Gary Fusco as first team coach. Graeme and Gary were part of last season’s backroom team alongside Paul. We are now on the hunt for a new physio as Thea Sinclair has had to step down due largely to other commitments. A new goalkeeping coach is also being sought as Graeme Smith is moving on to pastures new. Our thanks go to Thea and Graeme. Pitchworks are well underway at Central Park in preparing for next season. 5 friendlies have been arranged for July (3 at home, 2 away) and full details will be announced shortly.

On the playing front, at present we have Paul McLean, Jack Denham, Sam Newman, Liam Watt and Jack Allan fixed up for next season. We will also shortly make an announcement re two additional signings under our new player development programme.

Our loan players will now of course naturally depart back to their own clubs – thanks go to Rhys Walker, Ruaridh Lynch, Jake Sutherland, Zeke Cameron and Olly Whyte – all gave us sterling service in 2024/25. Josh Blair is leaving us with our best wishes whilst Jack Fisher has had an operation and matters were left open so that we could review matters with him in the summer. Greig Spence was on a short-term deal which has now expired and we enjoyed seeing him back at Central Park.

Talks, as you would expect, are well underway with a number of signing targets. Indeed, some agreements have already been reached and details will be announced at the appropriate juncture. Loan players again will likely be an important part of the mix - as potentially may be the new style Co-operation agreements – normally these are firmed up on or after the commencement of pre-season training.

The remaining players from last season: Ewan MacPherson, Greg MacPherson, Aiden McLaughlin, Shay Burke, Daryl Healy, Matty McDonald and Jamie Docherty were all made offers. Most were offered similar terms as in 2024/25 but enhanced terms were also offered in a couple of instances. Indications are though that they will find new berths elsewhere, some with clubs closer to home, and we wish them well. Cowdenbeath FC of course will be entitled to compensation from their new clubs in some cases – Colin Nelson will deal with this aspect in conjunction with the Club Secretary.