Scottish Premiership Previews: Motherwell

Motherwell had been in free-fall since 2014. The Steelmen finished runners-up the season prior, edging out Aberdeen on the final afternoon, but began the next campaign in relegation form. Stuart McCall resigned as Motherwell languished near the foot of the table. Form didn’t improve under Ian Barraclough, although a 6-1 humbling of Rangers in the play-off final did provide an enjoyable moment for Scottish football fans. Barraclough’s torrid reign came to an end not long into the next season. ‘Well toiled, picking up just seven points from eight games, and a one-nil defeat at Hamilton called time on his unpopular tenure. Motherwell needed a stable, reliable hand to guide them. Mark McGhee provided that.

There wasn’t an outpouring of emotion from ‘Well fans upon hearing the news. McGhee isn’t the type of manager who incites that sort of reaction. But he brought about a steady improvement – 14 points from his first eight matches indicated Motherwell had made the right choice. However, a blip at the beginning of 2016 – five defeats in seven games – sent them tumbling back towards the relegation places, and McGhee knew he had to make a change. The alteration came in the form of a switch to a 4-3-3 from a flat 4-4-2, giving the Steelmen an extra man in midfield and focusing their attack through the trio of Marvin Johnson, Scott McDonald and Louis Moult. It brought the best out of all three. Johnson brought his pace and bag of tricks; McDonald his experienced mind and creativity; and Moult his relentless hard work and poacher’s instinct. Five consecutive victories sent them clambering back up the table to finish a comfortable fifth.

It has been, for the most part, a rather settled summer for McGhee. The one departure that might affect them is the loss of Stephen Pearson, who joined Kolkata in the Indian Super League. It leaves a gaping hole in the centre of their midfield, one which McGhee has to plug. The silver-haired Keith Lasley doesn’t have the legs to fill that role, so it could fall to one of Craig Clay or Lee Lucas, both new arrivals, to partner him in the middle of the park. It could also be a huge season for Chris Cadden. The 19-year-old made 16 league appearances last season, and this would be the perfect time to make his role permanent.

Although Marvin Johnson has been the recipient of interest from down south, McGhee, for now, still has his attacking trio. The addition of striker Jacob Blyth from Leicester City should give him back-up and a chance to rotate.

One area that McGhee has bolstered is his defence. The Steelmen conceded a huge 63 goals last season – a figure slightly warped by their 7-0 hammering at Parkhead on the final afternoon of the season. Steven Hammell and Stephen McManus are the only semi-reliable elements in the ‘Well defence, which is a cause for concern given the former is 34 and the latter is 33. McGhee has tried to address this in bringing centre-backs Carl McHugh and Ben Heneghan to Fir Park, and right-back Richard Tait. Unfortunately the club also lost Connor Ripley, after the goalkeeper’s loan came to an end. Craig Samson and Dean Brill, who signed after an injury ravaged couple of seasons in Inverness, will battle for the number one jersey.

Mark McGhee will hope to pick up from where he left off. If ‘Well can hold on to McDonald, Moult and Johnson, they’ve got a good chance of again challenging for the top-six – a more difficult proposition this season with the return (or first time appearance) of Rangers. McGhee’s main aim will to reduce the amount of goals the Steelmen ship, lessening the burden on the front three. If he can find the right balance in midfield and plug the Steven Pearson shaped hole, he’ll be on the right track. Another stable and safe season should be on the cards for ‘Well. Given their recent cup history, though, I’m sure the Motherwell support would appreciate a little cup run.

Scottish Premiership Previews: Partick Thistle

Partick Thistle are the forgotten man of the Scottish Premiership. The Jags are a steady ship, drifting from season to season, a calming presence – apart from the horrifying Kingsley – in the sometimes tumultuous world of Scottish football, keeping a safe distance from a relegation dog-fight, yet rarely threatening to break out of the bottom-six. But could that be about to change? Could this be the season that Alan Archibald’s men make a break for the top-six?

It could’ve been a difficult summer for Alan Archibald. Stuart Bannigan, Abdul Osman and Steven Lawless were all out of contract. The trio possess all the talents a decent Premiership midfield could ask for, and it would’ve been an almost impossible situation for Archibald to replace them. But all three opted to remain at Firhill. It meant Archibald could focus on building, rather than replacing.

The one addition to his settled midfield is the return – for his third spell – of Chris Erskine. The attacking midfielder dropped out of the Dundee United setup not long after Mixu’s arrival, and he’ll relish the chance to make a regular impact. His creativity in behind the striker could be crucial. Partick scored just 41 goals last season – the same as Kilmarnock and fewer than relegated Dundee United.

Thistle have added striker Adebayo Azeez to the club, hoping he’ll be more Kris Doolan and less Mathias Pogba. Paul’s slightly less talented brother – he’s not the one moving for £100 million – possesses the physical attributes to succeed in Scotland but not the technical ones, and it doesn’t help that he couldn’t hit a water with a banjo (I might be getting my phrases crossed). Doolan, on the other hand, is a dangerous penalty box striker on his day; unfortunately those days come all in patches. However, he did look a little more consistent towards the end of the season, hitting six goals in the final seven games. That productivity would be useful if Archibald holds secret ambitions of breaking into the top-six.

Thistle did possess one of the stronger defences last season, conceding 50 goals – the second best record in the bottom six, and fewer than Motherwell, St Johnstone, and Ross County. The one departure that might hurt Partick is Danny Seaborne, who joined Indian side Mohun Bagan rather than extend his contract at Firhill. It leaves a lot of pressure on the inexperienced Liam Lindsay, who’ll be partnered either by Danny Devine or David Syme. Neither is a great option. Devine was bang average at Inverness, arguably the weakest defender in their back-line; Syme, meanwhile, is 19 and still developing. A bit of experience wouldn’t go amiss if Archibald decides to dip back into the market.

When the news that Mustapha Dumbuya suffered another long-term injury broke, Partick fans must’ve felt a familiar feeling of frustration and sadness. The right-back from Sierra Leone has looked so strong, both attacking and defending, during his short stint in Scotland, yet recurring injuries have meant we’ve seen so little of him. That blow, however, was slightly mitigated by the arrival of Ziggy Gordon. The announcement came as a surprise, as many thought he’d earned a chance at a bigger club – no offence to Thistle. The quick and mobile 23-year-old will be an excellent replacement for Dumbuya as he recovers.

Overall, Alan Archibald will call this summer a success. He’s retained the core of his squad, added strength up front in Azeez and Erskine, and given himself a second – and good – choice at right-back in Gordon. If Partick Thistle are to challenge for a place in the top-six it will come down to two questions: can Devine or Syme form a strong partnership with Lindsay, and can Doolan – or another striker – contribute a consistent stream of goals. If so, the Firhill side might be celebrating a top-six finish for the first time since 1977.

Scottish Premiership Previews: Kilmarnock

Last season:

Skin of their teeth would not adequately describe the method by which Kilmarnock survived relegation. Killie entered the second leg of their play-off tie with Falkirk chasing a one-goal deficit, and the manner of their limp performance in that first leg led many to doubt their chances of retaining a Premiership status. But Lee Clark’s side, buoyed by a resilient home support, hammered Falkirk from the opening moments of the home tie. In the end it turned into a 90 minute montage of Kilmarnock’s best bits. Josh Magennis’ sheer athleticism was too much for Falkirk’s drained back-line to handle, the Bairns having played four more games than their opponents on route to this clash. However, as brilliant a performance as it was, it cannot mask Kilmarnock’s glaring deficiencies throughout the campaign.

 

Manager:

Lee Clark is still somewhat of an unknown quantity. He bought himself some extra-credit thanks to the thrashing inflicted upon Falkirk in the play-off final, and his wild celebrations certainly endeared him to the Kilmarnock support. That support, though, might have dwindled through the summer. Clark gutted the squad, leaving just a couple of remnants from the previous campaign, and introduced an entire team’s worth of young talent from the depths of English football. Most were sceptical, and those doubts were furthered thanks to some dire performances in the League Cup. Killie required a comeback to defeat Berwick Rangers, laboured in a goalless draw against Albion Rovers, and lost to Greenock Morton at Rugby Park. The results forced Clark to come out and shut down rumours he was thinking about quitting the club. For now, he remains.

 

The team and transfers:

It’s difficult to give a report on Kilmarnock’s overhauled squad because so many of the players are new to Scottish football. Jamie MacDonald is one of the few players to keep their place in Clark’s team, having performed admirably throughout a difficult campaign. He dug Killie out of more than a couple of holes as the season progressed. In front of him, though, is an almost entirely new defence. Jamie Cobain and Joshua Webb, products from Newcastle and Aston Villa’s academies respectively, will chase the starting berth at right-back, while either Jonathan Burn and William Boyle, both loanees, will form a centre-back partnership with Miles Addison, who impressed during his short stint at Killie last season. Steven Smith, another positive from the last campaign, keeps his place at left-back.

Gary Dicker, who also joined Killie after Clark’s arrival, did enough to warrant a longer stay at Rugby Park – I guess he’s one of the dressing room veterans at this stage. Who he’ll line up alongside in centre-midfield is a more difficult prediction. 20-year-old Martin Smith is the more experienced option; 18-year-old Greg Taylor being the other. Width will come in the form of Mark Waddington, Callum McFadzean, Rory McKenzie and Jordan Jones.

Perhaps one of the biggest breakthrough players of last season was Greg Kiltie. Killie managed to retain his services despite the interest of bigger clubs, probably because of the promise of first-team football. His invention made him one of Kilmarnock’s best threats and it’s key that he continues to perform.

Kiltie could find himself in behind Josh Magennis, Souleymane Coulibaly, a Tottenham youth product, or Flo Bojaj, on loan from Huddersfield Town. It’ll be interesting to see if Kris Boyd remains a part of Clark’s long-term plans.

 

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Verdict:

It’s impossible to judge Kilmarnock. A complete squad overhaul means Clark has to discover which system works best and who to start. Not all of his signings will work. Potential doesn’t always translate into product. Clark has taken a big risk in such a big changeover, and all the pressure is on his shoulders. It could work – it might end it disaster.

Scottish Premiership Previews: Inverness Caledonian Thistle

Last season:

The moment Graeme Shinnie hoisted the Scottish Cup at Hampden will forever be etched in the memories of the Inverness Caledonian Thistle fans. That was John Hughes’ moment of triumph. He excelled the expectations of even the most positive supporters, guiding the club to a record third place finish and their first ever major cup. It was also the moment, upon reflection, that sowed his downfall. Inverness slipped down the table, finishing seventh, and Yogi lambasted the Inverness board in what became a public slagging match, lamenting their lack of vision and their unwillingness to back him. It became hard to support Hughes. Clubs of Inverness’s stature can’t afford to outbid sides who attract ten thousand fans, and it’s not worth putting the club in danger for to do so. It’s understandable that one would be frustrated losing Miles Storey, the latest in a long line of big name departures from the Highland club, but that’s the nature of being Inverness manager. His brand of pedestrian football certainly did not earn him many admirers. While aiming for a Barcelona-like style is admirable, especially in the physical Scottish game, his directionless, meaningless passing game made for dull, dull football.

 

Manager:

Richie Foran steps into the manager’s shoes, inexperienced, but with the support of the Inverness faithful. His first move, re-signing David Raven, who had been side-lined and forced out by Hughes, got the fans straight on his side, and he’ll certainly benefit from being under less pressure than many other managers. Inverness fans, in general, don’t expect great things; just good football. Vibrant and adventurous performances in the League Cup seemed to indicate a change in style, which will be welcomed after the dreary years of his predecessor. If he can combine that with positive results, he’ll be a success.

 

The team and transfers:

Inverness conceded just 48 goals last season – the same as Aberdeen. Only Celtic and Hearts had better records, and that’s despite Josh Meekings and Gary Warren both suffering injuries during the first-half of the season. In part, that was due to Carl Tremarco stepping up in the absence of Graeme Shinnie. It makes sense, then, that Foran has done little business in this area. The one exception is full-back Kevin McNaughton, who gives Foran options at full-back.

Inverness also boast one of the strongest centre midfields in Scotland. Ross Draper brings unrelenting power and drive; Greg Tansey dictates the game; and Liam Polworth developed into a fine prospect last season. If Iain Vigurs can produce more consistent displays, Inverness will be set in that department. One problem during Hughes’ tenure was natural width, as Inverness often found their play pushed into a narrow corridor down the centre of the pitch. The pacey and tricky Billy King will profit from regular playing time, having been a second-string option at both Hearts and on loan at Rangers. Jake Mulraney, up from QPR, should also give them some much needed width. It’s also important that the duo chip in on the goals front.

Inverness scored 54 goals last season, with Miles Storey contributing 11 of those. With the on-loan striker choosing to join Aberdeen rather than a return to Inverness, Foran needed to find an adequate replacement. Caley Thistle have, in recent years, gained a reputation for plucking out a predatory striker from the depths of English football, and this summer is no different. Scott Boden arrived from Newport County, having had spells at Halifax Town and Macclesfield Town in the past few seasons. The journeyman attacker, though, has a decent record, having scored at least ten goals during each of his last three seasons. Four goals in four League Cup games is a good start for Boden; can he continue to find the net against stronger opposition?

On paper, Inverness look strong. Foran possesses a solid and experienced defence, a midfield which can do just about anything, and a striker who’s hit the ground running. One thing he doesn’t have, though, is depth. If Boden goes through a dry-spell or suffers an injury, there’s a real lack of options to replace him. The same can be said about Inverness in all areas of the pitch.

 

Key player:

Scott Boden needs to have a solid campaign if Inverness are going to challenge for the top-six. The striker has been lethal in the League Cup, but, only after the Premiership starts, will we start to gauge just how dangerous a frontman he is.

 

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Verdict:

The Hughes era is over. The Foran era begins. Inverness fans aren’t expecting another cup success, or a top-four finish, but top-six certainly wouldn’t go amiss. The success of Foran’s first campaign in charge could come down to injuries. He possesses a strong first-team but little back-up. Inverness is a decent first job in management for the striker to have. The home support will put him under little pressure and give him their full backing from the off. After the dreary years of directionless passing and little action, Inverness fans will be chomping at the bit to witness some entertaining football.

Scottish Premiership Previews: Dundee

Last season:

It would be fair to call last season a disappointment. Some, including this blogger, had pegged Dundee to challenge Hearts for third, based on the signings Paul Hartley had made. The Dees decimated Kilmarnock 4-0 in stunning style on the opening day, with Greg Stewart continuing his rich vein of form cutting in from the right to grab a brace and Rory Loy snatching a double of his own. Those predictions felt spot on. On reflection, the performance that afternoon might have had more to do with Kilmarnock’s glaring deficiencies than Dundee’s brilliance. One issue dogged their subsequent matches. Dundee controlled the opening 45 minutes against a travelling Hearts, Kane Hemmings opening his account to put the hosts ahead, but collapsed after the break, with Juanma wreaking havoc against Dundee’s creaky back-line and notching a double. It became a running theme. Inconsistency plagued their season. Throughout the course of the campaign, Dundee managed an impressive 15 draws, four more than their nearest rival for that coveted title, and ended up with a higher number in that column than wins (11) or losses (12). The Dees missed out on the top-six, 10^th place Hamilton Academical five points behind them. Hartley couldn’t even hang his hat on an impressive cup run. Dunfermline Athletic bested them at East End Park in the League Cup, and worse was to come. Gary Harkins needs to learn a lesson: you do not taunt your opponent if you go on to lose. It became an embarrassing episode, and Hartley, usually cold in interviews, clearly sounded frustrated at his captain making those comments. Dundee conceded within one minute at Ibrox, going on to lose 4-0. It was a season for forget, apart from one moment, one glorious moment.

 

Manager:

Paul Hartley did an exceptional job in Dundee’s first season in the Premiership. It also appeared that he’d done an excellent job improving upon the squad that cemented their position in the top tier. He trimmed the fat – Phil Roberts being a prime example – and added talent like Kane Hemmings, bolstering a strong squad and building one more than capable of challenging for at least a top six place. There remains strong support for Hartley – who could even replace him if he did receive the chop? – but there are valid criticisms. Some think his tactics are too predictable, at times lacking purpose and direction; others claim he’s too much of a tinker, making alterations when there’s no need; and others question his ability to lift the spirits of his team. There’s no doubt, though, that this is his most important season at Dundee. It’s make or break.

 

The team and transfers:

Dundee, unlike St Johnstone, are a team who have been reliant on outstanding talents lifting an average team. For example, no Saints player would likely feature in Celtic or Rangers’ first team, yet Scott Bain, Greg Stewart and Kane Hemmings were all picked in the SPFL Team of the Season – although I think most were surprised by the goalkeeper and winger’s inclusion – and could slide into both of their starting squads. But this works in Tommy Wright’s favour in the long run. If one of the cogs in his machine is sold off, he can find an adequate replacement. No one piece is irreplaceable. For Dundee, it’s the opposite. Their supporters find themselves dreading the inevitable news that an English club is bidding for one of their players. Last week Hemmings moved on, next week it might be Stewart.

One concern that’s been out of Hartley’s hands is the amount of injuries Dundee’s centre-backs suffer. James McPake was his most reliable defender, until an injury at the beginning of the year ruled him out until what could now be around Christmas time. Julen Extabeguren is another who’s been in-and-out of the side. There are still reservations about his qualities as a centre-half; he’s comfortable on the ball and a decent enough passer, but lapses in concentration can open up space for opponents. The addition of Darren O’Dea proved to be a shrewd signing, as he helped make up for the absent McPake. The duo might make a convincing partnership. There are also questions about Cammy Kerr and Kevin Holt that need to be answered. Are they better suited to being wing-backs? Is Holt reliable enough to warrant keeping his place in the team?

It’s clear that Hartley’s main focus of business this summer has been balancing his midfield. Last season Dundee had little natural width, with Stewart preferring to cut inside from the right flank, and Rory Loy or another often stuck out of position on the left. The addition of Danny Williams should help in this regard. The former Inverness winger offers that natural width and is able to feature in a multitude of positions. Michael Duffy is a similar option that regard. The signings of Mark O’Hara and James Vincent also bolster their options in midfield. Dundee lacked steel in midfield after the mid-season departure of Kevin Thomson. The main question, though, is whether one of these can replace the invention, however inconsistent, of Gary Harkins. Something definitely occurred behind the scenes between him and Hartley; one minute he’s filling in as captain, the next he’s being shunned and shown the exit. For all of his shortcomings, and there are many, Harkins has that bit of spark that is rare for a midfielder outside the top six. Suitors shouldn’t be hard to come by.

Dundee’s fortune, though, is going to be decided up front. Greg Stewart’s form dipped slightly last season, but his deft dribbles, turn of pace, and lethal left foot make him one of the most dangerous wingers in Scotland. It’ll be tough to replace him if he joins an English Championship side. He, Harkins and Hemmings contributed 34 of Dundee’s 53 league goals. It’ll be up to him and Dundee’s latest acquisition – and Loy if he can stay fit – to reach similar figures. Faissal El Bakhtaoui is one of those signings who could be either a sensation or a flop. There’s little middle ground. The former Dunfermline striker has the weight of expectation on his shoulders, and he’ll be judged against Hemmings. El Bakhtaoui is different from him, though. The Moroccan isn’t the powerhouse that Hemmings is, and at the Pars he benefitted from the work-horse Michael Moffat hassling defenders, using his size and strength to fight for the ball. The partnership benefited both parties. But do Dundee possess an attacker who can do that for El Bakhtaoui? His sheer speed, quick feet and invention make him a constant threat, but one that, I believe, might be silenced at a higher level. Dunfermline cruised to the League One title, and he benefitted from an attack that featured players above the level of the opposition. He won’t have that same luxury at Dens. It’ll be interesting how he transitions to Premiership football.

 

Key player:

Faissal El Bakhtaoui. For all the reasons I mentioned above. He’ll be burdened by expectation and has to transition from leading the line of a League One juggernaut to a mid-table Premiership outfit. Can he handle that pressure? Will he sense the resentment of the already irritated Dundee support if he doesn’t hit the ground running?

 

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Verdict:

Dundee supporters, for the most part, are being realistic. Hemmings’ departure is a hammer blow to their chances of finishing inside the top-six, and replacing his goals will be the outstanding issue. The Dees’ season could come down to three questions: will injuries again ravage their defence; will Stewart be at the club at the end of August; and can Faissal and Rory Loy hit a purple patch? These three will be the difference between a possible top-six and hovering above the relegation places.

Scottish Premiership Previews: Ross County

Last season:

The 2015-16 campaign will be remembered as the best in Ross County’s history. The Staggies finished inside the top six and lifted the League Cup, besting Hibs in the final. For me, it’s hard to look past Alex Schalk’s sensational strike at Hampden to finish Celtic’s chances of a comeback in the semi-final as the moment that defined that run. And I’m sure each fan – or anyone who enjoyed County’s journey – will have a memory they’ll treasure. Moments like these are rarities in football; Ross County fans should remember them for decades to come. Jim McIntyre’s side could’ve achieved more in the league had their form not dropped off a cliff after the final. The Staggies collected eight points from the nine games after their moment in the sun, sliding down the table and just holding on to complete a top six finish. But I doubt many fans care. Top six finishes are nice, but League Cup victories are cherished memories for life.

 

Manager:

Jim McIntyre has performed miracles in Dingwall. It’s worth remembering that County were abysmal when he arrived, a constant wheel of nobodies rotating in and out, a shambles of a squad embarrassing the club on the pitch. The Staggies collected a mere 12 points from the first 24 games of the 14-15 campaign, driving them to the brink of certain relegation. But he turned that around. A miraculous nine game undefeated streak cannoned them up the table and to safety. McIntyre retained a large portion of his trimmed squad, built upon it, and County continued to progress. He’s built a solid, organised and purposeful team. And in doing so, he’s entered Ross County folklore.

 

The team and transfers:

In front of Scott Fox sits an unrecognisable defence. Paul Quinn returned in January after failing to hold down a place in Aberdeen, and he’s needed in the wake of the news that Andrew Davies is seeking a return to England. He admitted that his wife hasn’t settled and, although I’m sure County fans will be disappointed, that’s just one of the things of football. It’s to his and the club’s credit that both parties have been professional about it. He’ll continue to be at his best until he can find a move, and the club will not hold him back. Davies was a sensation last season, with an outstanding reading of the game making up for his lack of speed. However, the Davies and Quinn partnership was never going to work. The duo are too alike, and at least one of the centre-backs needed pace to cover for the other. It’s also worth noting that County conceded 61 goals last season – the 8^th weakest defence in the division. It’s clear that McIntyre has aimed to address this. He’s signed right-back Erik Cikos, left-back Kenny van der Weg, and centre-back Jay McEveley. Aaron McCarey has also arrived to challenge Scott Fox for the number one shirt.

County’s second blow came in the form of Jackson Irvine, the ponytailed prince, leaving for greener pastures. The Aussie midfielder traded Dingwall for Championship side Burton Albion, who paid a record fee for him. It says a lot about his performances that Scottish football supporters, not just of County, were sad to see him leave. It’s almost impossible for McIntyre to replace Irvine. He can regain possession, charge up the pitch, put balls about, chip in on the goals front – he was the complete box-to-box midfielder in that regard, and proved a crucial cog in the counter-attacking system. I can’t have been the only one who saw him as a natural successor to Scott Brown at Celtic. But, while Brown never made the move down south, Irvine has chosen to push himself, and I, for one, look forward to seeing where he ends up. The transfer does leave County weak in centre midfield. Martin Woods still splits opinion, and, although I like Ian McShane, he can be inconsistent, and neither one offers a physical presence in midfield. From some reports it sounds like Christopher Routis, who appears to be a physical player, can be used as a defensive midfielder, which could be the answer. McIntyre could yet want to recruit another centre midfield, though.

One area that doesn’t need bolstering is their attacking line-up. The Staggies possess the strongest attack outside the big two. I’d go as far to say that County are more loaded up front than either Hearts, who’ve not discovered a system that gets the best out of their strikers, and Rangers, who are reliant on penalty-hogger Martyn Waghorn and Kenny Miller. In Liam Boyce, Craig Curran, Alex Schalk, and Brian Graham, McIntyre has four unique options to choose from. Schalk is the quick dribbler, speeding past opponents, Graham the poacher, dangerous from close range, Boyce the danger in the air, feeding off crosses, and Curran the hold-up man, using his size to frustrate defenders. All four are more than capable of scoring; and all four can be dropped if their form deteriorates.

 

Key player:

Ross County is a team greater than the sum of its parts. Jim McIntyre has options in most positions, and it’s to his credit that he’s willing to drop them if one is out of form. It means he’s not reliant on one or two players to carry the side, like Dundee, who find themselves desperately seeking to replace their stars. Although I’ll be keeping an eye out for the always exciting Alex Schalk, I think Paul Quinn could be the key player this season. His leadership could be crucial in helping organise and settle a completely new defence.

 

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Verdict:

The Dingwall faithful can look east at Inverness to see the hangover of such a defining moment as a cup win. John Hughes guided Caley Thistle to the Scottish Cup and third place, and then, within 12 months, his relationship with the board turned into a public slagging match. The Staggies supporters should also look at St Johnstone. Tommy Wright led the Saints to the Scottish Cup but, unlike Hughes, he remained sensible in his outlook. Wright understands the limitations of a club of that size. If McIntyre can deliver a similar feeling of stability, and another top six finish, it should be considered a success.

Scottish Premiership Previews: St Johnstone

Last season:

It’s one of Scottish football’s great questions: how is Tommy Wright still at St Johnstone? That’s not a dig at the Saints, far from it, rather a reflection on Wright’s achievements at the Perth club. St Johnstone burst out of the traps last season, a more attacking, free-flowing outfit than we’d become accustomed to. 30 points from their opening 17 games made it look like business as usual. A mid-season dip, though, threatened to derail their campaign. The usually unflappable Wright even came under some criticism as Saints laboured. One win in 11 sent them tumbling outside the top six – perhaps it highlights Wright’s accomplishments at the club that this would’ve been a surprise. Victories over Inverness, Ross County, and Hearts, however, put them back on course, before a tremendous run of results post-split put them into a comfortable fourth place finish. Saints bested Aberdeen, County, Motherwell and even Celtic, and held a two-goal lead at Tynecastle after 12 minutes. Unfortunately, an own-goal and an Arnaud Djoum strike ended their hopes of completing a perfect post-split run.

 

Manager:

Tommy Wright had been linked to Nottingham Forest during the summer break, but he remains at McDiarmid Park for another season. Perhaps he’s seen as an unfashionable option, given his more pragmatic style, but seeing as Alex Neil and Alan Stubbs both joined English Championship clubs on the back of less outstanding achievements, it seems odd that no one down south has seen fit to give Wright a chance. He guided St Johnstone to their first Scottish Cup and developed them into the fourth best team in Scotland on a limited budget. He’s shone in almost every category a manager can be judged on. Sure, the football isn’t the best, but it’s a results-based game, and Wright is Mr Consistent in Scotland. Not that St Johnstone fans will complain.

 

The team:

Wright’s first conundrum this season is whether to start Alan Mannus or Zander Clark in goal. The Northern Irishman has been one of the more reliable ‘keepers in the division, but his performance level dipped last season, while Clark, who impressed on loan at Queen of the South during the 14/15 campaign, has bided his time on the bench. Clark hasn’t put a foot wrong when he’s been called upon, and there’s a feeling that, at 24, now’s the time to let him flourish as St Johnstone’s first choice stopper.

The defence, as it stands, is relatively settled. Barring injuries, and the creeping hand of time, the back-line is solid, consistent, and should be in place for years to come. One of Wright’s biggest qualities is getting the best out of the talent he has at his disposal, and there’s no better example of that than Joe Shaughnessy. The former Dons defender never impressed at right-back, lacking verve in attacking situations, and Aberdeen supporters weren’t too fussed about losing him to the Perth club. Wright switched him to centre-back, alongside the ever-reliable Steven Anderson, and he’s become one of the most solid defenders outside the top three. He might not be exciting, like an Ozturk, but he’s reliable. Brian Easton, meanwhile, continues to be one of the best left-backs in the division.

Wright has an abundance of options in centre midfield, ranging from the full-on Murray Davidson, to the more inventive Liam Craig, via the more defensive minded Chris Millar. Danny Swanson improved as the season progressed, returning to his best form in the latter stages, and David Wotherspoon, although inconsistent, occasionally invisible, and sometimes a figure of frustration, possesses the spark and dynamism to create something out of nothing. The departure of Michael O’Halloran and his directness almost proved fatal to the Saints’ hopes of finishing in the top four, but the duo stepped up at the crucial moment to help retain their status as the fourth best team in Scotland.

The one area for concern for St Johnstone is up-front. St Johnstone were at their best last season when Graeme Cummings and Steven MacLean were firing on all cylinders, the former creating the chances, the latter finishing them. However, MacLean’s age and injuries are limiting the amount of appearances he can make in a season. This would be the perfect time for Chris Kane to step up. The energetic striker can’t be faulted for his attitude and work-rate, but he’s yet to make the grade in the Premiership in terms of contributing goals. Wotherspoon and Swanson could also do more on that front.

 

Key player:

It’s difficult to choose one key player at St Johnstone. Tommy Wright’s created a side that’s stronger than the sum of its parts, and one that relies on all the cogs turning in unison. Murray Davidson is arguably the best player in the team: his drive, grit, and determination in the heart of the Saints midfield can be the difference between a laboured performance and a winning one. He’s the sort of leader who can grab the game by the scruff of the neck, and there are not many players like him in Scotland.

 

Transfers:

It appears, on paper at least, that Tommy Wright has set out to address all the problems in his squad. Dave MacKay’s injuries are becoming more recurrent, and, at 36, that’s not likely to change, so the signing of Keith Watson fills that void and stops Shaughnessy being dragged out of position. The arrival of Blair Alston, perhaps the best player not featuring for Hibs or Rangers in the Championship last season, offers a directness and attacking flair that Saints have lacked since O’Halloran’s departure. At Falkirk he often started out on the right, although he often drifted inside as he’s not a natural winger. His versatility could come in handy if injuries start to stack up. Michael Coulson also gives Wright options on the flanks. I’ll admit that I no almost nothing about the winger, other than he fell out with Jackie McNamara, which should endear him to the St Johnstone faithful who belted out ‘you’re getting sacked in the morning’ during his final game in charge at Dundee United. Curious murmurings greeted Paul Paton’s arrival, the former United midfielder having contributed to the Arabs’ down-fall, but he offers a solid presence, barring the occasional mishap. If he can cut those errors out of his game, he’ll be a useful option to have. Overall, it’s been a positive summer for the Saints. I’d argue that, pound-for-pound, they’ve done some of the best business in the division.

 

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Verdict:

The Saints’ run of fourth place finishes could come to an end this season – but not for definite. While Celtic have employed a semi-competent manager, Rangers are back (I’m not being drawn into an argument about if this is their first time in the Premiership), and Aberdeen have strengthened in some areas, Hearts aren’t looking all that great. Although the Jambos finished nine points above the Saints last season, there’s been little improvement at Tynecastle, and, if Tommy Wright’s side get off to a good start, there could be an upset.

Scottish Premiership Previews: Heart of Midlothian

Success breeds expectation; and expectation breeds privilege. It’s brilliant in the moment but creates that lingering idea that this is just the beginning. Some managers discover it the hard way. John Hughes defied expectation and guided Inverness Caledonian Thistle to triumph in the Scottish Cup and a third place finish. 12 months later he departed the Highland club in a cloud of resentment, perceiving that board lacked desire. Another manager who’s feeling the weight of expectation is Robbie Neilson.

If a Heart of Midlothian supporter had been asked in March 2014 – the club on the brink of relegation, the distinct threat of administration looming over Tynecastle – if a third place finish and a chance at European football was an achievable target in two years, they’d have thought the question was dripping in sarcasm. It highlights the job Anne Budge, Craig Levein and Neilson have done; the trio have rebuilt the club into a self-sustaining and successful model outfit. Neilson surpassed expectation in dismissing Rangers and Hibernian in the Championship, and then secured third place in the Premiership upon the Jambos’ return to the top flight. He’s done a tremendous job. But there’s still a section of the support that refuses to back him. Success can do that.

Some of the criticisms are legitimate. Hearts claimed the scalps of Rangers and Hibs in the first couple of games of the Championship season, but failed to defeat their Edinburgh rivals in their three other meetings and managed just one other win over the Ibrox side. There was a feeling that Neilson’s tactics changed for the bigger encounters. Hearts claimed eight points in their eight clashes with Celtic and Aberdeen last season, but six of those came as the Dons collapsed as their title bid faltered. The argument picked up steam when they met Hibs in the Scottish Cup. Hearts raced to a two-goal lead inside the first-half at Tynecastle, before Jason Cummings and Paul Hanlon snatched the tie back in the final ten minutes. An insipid performance in the replay allowed Hibs to progress. That was a bitter pill to swallow, especially given the consequences.

Hibs ended their Scottish Cup hoodoo at Hampden Park, putting an end to the ‘Hibsing it’ jokes for the time being. It also acted as a reminder of Neilson’s failures in the cup competitions. Their elimination from the cups in his first year can be defended in that Celtic opposed them on both occasions. However, their lame outing against the Hibees, and another loss to Celtic in the League Cup, added more fuel to the fire burning under Neilson. A plane circled over the stadium a couple of weeks later, its banner, flapping in the breeze, reading, ‘no style, no bottle, Neilson out’. The stunt provoked an inspired response from Neilson’s supporters, which proved to be a vast majority of the crowd, who chanted ‘there’s only one Robbie Neilson’. However, that vocal minority has grown. There was understandable frustration after Birkirkara knocked them out of the Europa League qualifiers after another characterless performance. It’s become something of a trend since Osman Sow’s departure.

No Hearts fan wanted to lose the striker, but, then again, no fan expected a Chinese club to offer over a million pounds for a man with six months left on his contract. Those figures don’t come about too often in Scottish football; and never for someone almost out of contract. He left, and nothing much seemed to change. Hearts collected 15 points from their next six games, closing the gap on the stuttering Dons. The performances were a little dull and direct, but the points kept coming. But after St Johnstone thrashed Hearts 3-0 at Tynecastle, that changed. Nine points from the last nine matches left a sour taste for those who wanted Neilson gone. And to add to that feeling of resentment, 17 goals in the 15 games since Sow’s departure didn’t point to exciting football.

Neilson is aiming to address this in signing Conor Sammon and Tony Watt, two former prodigies, neither of whom fulfilled their potential, Robbie Muirhead, and Bjorn Johnsen. Watt, at 22, still has time to develop and become the striker he should already be. A poor attitude meant that his development stuttered at Charlton and a number of other clubs, and so Neilson’s man-management skills will be put to the test if he’s to get the best out of him. Muirhead is a similar conundrum. The former Dundee United and Partick Thistle attacker has shown glimpses of promise during his short career, but he’s yet to make the break through, and there again reservations about his attitude. In these four, and the inconsistent Juanma, Neilson has an abundance of options at his disposal, each with their own qualities, and so there’s no one else to blame if the striker issue isn’t sorted out.

One problem that Neilson didn’t have as last season came to a climax was who to choose in between the sticks. Neil Alexander was offered a contract extension, which was withdrawn at the 11^th hour supposedly because Neilson felt Jack Hamilton, the club’s 22-year-old stopper, could make the jump up. It was a rather inglorious end to the veteran’s time at Tynecastle. The club signed Paul Gallagher in a player/coach role and Viktor Noring, who’ll offer back-up. Hamilton, though, replaces one of the more reliable and experienced ‘keepers in the division, just a handful of top level games to his name. Neilson hasn’t blooded him; rather tossed him into the cauldron, fingers crossed.

But the supporters should back their manager in this regard. Hearts did excellent business last summer in terms of recruitment and built upon a squad which dominated the Championship. Igor Rossi slotted in alongside Alim Ozturk at centre-back, John Souttar proved his critics wrong after he jumped off the sinking ship that was Dundee United, Perry Kitchen and Arnaud Djoum were revelations, and Juanma, although inconsistent, had spells of brilliance, including an opening day roasting of former Jambo Brad McKay, which provoked a Nigel Farage like outpouring from the defender. One signing, however, that didn’t pan out, ignoring his entertainment value, was that of Juwon Oshaniwa. The Nigerian left-back, heralded upon arrival because he’d gone up against Lionel Messi at international level, became a bit of a joke figure, and it doesn’t look like he’ll be part of Neilson’s plans going forward. Hearts have recruited Faycal Rherras in the hope that he’ll fill in at left-back, the one part of the back-line that needed improvement.

The one issue at this stage that Neilson could address is the imbalance in midfield. While Sam Nicholson offers pace and trickery on the left, it’s been proven on more than one occasion that Jamie Walker’s flourishes through the middle, in behind the striker, rather than on the right flank. Walker also has a history of injuries. It’s become a bit of a problem in that Neilson doesn’t have a natural right-sided midfielder to fill that role, and often he stuck one of his central midfielders out on the side, leaving Callum Paterson to give Hearts width on that side.

The question is whether this squad is talented and balanced enough to challenge Aberdeen and Rangers. The Jambos are the outsiders of the three to finish second; although whether the fan-base sees that the same way remains to be seen. Neilson has given himself options up-front and this could be the area which defines his season. If he can find a system that clicks, and the goals come, he should be safe; if he can’t, and the unimaginative play style which troubled the latter stages of the last campaign continues, he could be gone. Cup success is something else he should focus on. A top-four finish is a must, but silverware should also be on his mind.

Scottish Premiership Previews: Aberdeen

Aberdeen let a credible title challenge slip through their fingers last season. Eight consecutive victories, including a memorable 2-1 win over Celtic – something not achieved the season prior – rocketed them to the summit of the Premiership. However, Derek McInnes’ side seem to possess an allergic reaction to first place. One point from their next five games sent them tumbling off the top; and that moment should have set off warning signals. It became a bit of a running joke in Scottish football: the Dons imploded every time Celtic offered them the chance to catch up. A 12-game undefeated streak lifted them back to within touching distance of the reigning champions, but defeat at Inverness, and later at Motherwell, all but sealed a second place finish. Five defeats in their final six games created a sizeable gap in the table. Might that have been McInnes’ best chance at lifting the Premiership trophy at Pittodrie?

Celtic’s reaction to Rangers return has been strong. The Hoops have hired a competent manager who’ll be expected to out-perform Ronny Deila. While the Northern Irishman has done little tinkering with his underperforming squad, making just a couple of additions so far, his arrival is a statement of intent from the board. Aberdeen’s position as the second best team in Scotland will also come under threat. Rangers’ superior financial clout has allowed them to strengthen their Championship winning side, and pushing Celtic for the title will be on the agenda. Hearts could also challenge the Dons. Although Robbie Neilson is under pressure after a lacklustre exit from Europe, and it appearing that the team hasn’t been improved upon, the Jambos are still strong enough to pose a threat.

If the Dons are to meet this challenge and put together another title bid, Derek McInnes must fix the issues which hampered his championship ambitions last season.

The centre-back pairing of Mark Reynolds and Ash Taylor has been found out. The Dons conceded 33 goals during the 14-15 campaign; a figure that rose to 48 last term. Neither one offers a physical presence or the leadership abilities needed to guide a sometimes disorganised back-line. Both are also capable of moments of madness. My personal favourite was Juanma’s second as Hearts dealt Aberdeen’s title bid another blow. Ash Taylor dropped to ground injured but Aberdeen took a quick free-kick anyway, conceding possession straight from the kick. Jamie Walker sprinted into the Aberdeen box and put a short cross onto the head of Juanma, whose header eluded the hands of Scott Brown. A hobbling Taylor and Graeme Shinnie, who’d opted to help his injured cohort, arrived as the Spanish striker trailed off celebrating, in time to earn a bollocking.  It’s this disorganisation, breakdown in communication, and lack of leadership which has cost Aberdeen crucial points throughout McInnes’ tenure.

There’s also the continued over-reliance on Adam Rooney. The clinical striker notched 20 goals in 27 appearances last season, contributing almost one third of the Dons’ total goals. In his absence the team relied upon Simon Church. Ten points can be attributed to four of his six goals – his strikes guaranteed victories over Celtic, Dundee United and Partick Thistle, and a point against St Johnstone. While Aberdeen utilise a lone striker approach, Jonny Hayes and Kenny McLean must make a bigger contribution in front of goal – the pair scored just 11 goals between them.

The other major concern is in goal. Danny Ward proved an excellent loan acquisition, earning a chant from the Pittodrie faithful, but his time at Aberdeen was cut short. Adam Bogdan’s horrendous outings as Liverpool’s second choice stopper persuaded Jurgen Klopp to bring Ward back to Anfield earlier than expected. His departure was a blow, as he’d filled a position McInnes had struggled with since his arrival. Scott Brown received a second chance but again proved too average, and more than capable of making a calamitous error.

McInnes has been active in the transfer market trying to solve these problems. So far he’s signed seven players, all capable of making an impact on the first-team.

Neil Alexander departed Hearts and McInnes did excellent business in bringing him to Pittodrie. The 38-year-old is vastly experienced and is a commanding presence. However, there’s no guarantee he’ll be a regular starter. Joe Lewis arrived from Cardiff City having never quite made the grade in the English Championship, and he’s been favoured in the Europa League qualifiers.

McInnes’ answer to the centre-back question has been a little more confusing. Callum Morris arrived from Dundee United fresh from their relegation, although injuries meant he spent little time on the pitch – I’m not sure which point is worse than the other. Perhaps McInnes added him to be a back-up option, something Aberdeen have lacked since Paul Quinn’s quick return to Ross County – that’s the only sensible reason. The second centre-back he’s signed is Anthony O’Connor. The imposing Irishman could offer the physical presence that Reynolds and Taylor lack, and his ability to also play in a defensive midfield role make him a smart option to have.

A concern among Aberdeen supporters for some time has been the lack of back-up for their attacking players. Rooney, Niall McGinn and Hayes were excellent for the Dons last season, but injuries to any of them could’ve disrupted their campaign. If not for the contributions of Church in Rooney’s absence, Aberdeen’s title challenge would’ve evaporated long before it did. McInnes has identified this and has given himself options. Wes Burns signed on loan from Bristol City, providing back-up on the flanks, and Miles Storey, who impressed at Inverness, can run the channels as a striker or be utilised out on the flanks. The most useful signing, though, is that of Jayden Stockley. I’ll admit that I’ve not been able to see much of the Dons’ European campaign, but the striker made an immediate impression with his sheer size and strength. He dominates the box, using his physicality to bully defenders and height to threaten from crosses, meaning he threatens as a striker but can also bring the likes of Hayes and McGinn into the fold. Whether McInnes opts to reshape his team into a 4-4-2, using Rooney and Stockley as strike partners but leaving him light in the centre of midfield, remains to be seen.

This season will be huge for Aberdeen. Their support could understand finishing behind Celtic, but dropping to third, behind Rangers, would be a bitter pill to swallow. Rangers’ absence opened up a space that Aberdeen filled, making them the main challengers to Celtic’s title ambitions; a return to the old days would be a disappointment.

Matches to watch out for this weekend

CHAMPIONSHIP: QUEEN OF THE SOUTH V RAITH ROVERS

This could be the match that decides the team that finishes fourth in the Championship. Should Raith Rovers escape Palmerston Park with anything more than a loss and they will be guaranteed a place in the play-offs. It could cap off what’s been an astonishing run for the Kirkcaldy club. Raith have collected 24 points from their last eleven games, lost just once – a 2-0 defeat at Ibrox, and scalped Hibernian when Alan Stubbs’ side visited Stark’s Park a couple of weeks ago. And just last weekend Rangers had to settle for a point. The boisterous travelling support, 3-2 up in added time, the title in their grasp, were silenced as Harry Panayiotou rifled in a late equaliser. What’s more amazing is the sudden goal rush. In this 11 game spell Raith have notched 22 goals; it had taken them all 21 games of the campaign prior to this run to accumulate the same amount. It’s this threat that Queen of the South will have to combat on Saturday.

The Doonhamers themselves haven’t been short of a goal in recent weeks, but, unlike Raith, there’s been little reward for their efforts. James Fowler’s team have scored 17 in their last ten – a rate not dissimilar to Raith’s – but collected just ten points from those outings. Their last couple of games have highlighted their strengths and weaknesses. Against both Rangers and Falkirk the Doonhamers found themselves behind. The Gers took what looked like an unassailable lead, going 4-1 up in the 55^th minute. But Queen of the South battled back and reduced the lead to one; unfortunately time ran out on them before they could snatch a point. Last weekend goals from Blair Alston and John Baird put Falkirk two up, before Derek Lyle and Iain Russell struck back to grab a point against the travelling Bairns.

With just a point needed for Raith to guarantee a top-four finish, both teams are going to be pushing for three points. It should be a thrilling match.

 

 

LEAGUE ONE: COWDENBEATH V BRECHIN CITY

Imagine being Darren Dods last weekend. The Brechin manager watched his side scratch-and-claw to their fifth win in six matches, a 1-0 win over struggling Stenhousemuir, and he must have at least entertained the idea that the result will have lifted his team off the bottom of the table. Not so, I’m afraid. As Brechin claimed a crucial three points against the Warriors, their relegation rivals were also celebrating important wins. Apparently wins are like London buses to League One relegation candidates. Forfar Athletic strolled to a 2-0 win against second-place Peterhead and Cowdenbeath bested third-place Ayr United at Central Park. What were the odds that all three teams would win?

Forfar face the toughest tie of the weekend: a trip to East End Park to visit the champions, Dunfermline. It helps make this tie the most interesting of the round. Should Cowdenbeath claim three points, the Blue Brazil will create a five-point lead over Brechin; if the Hedgemen win they’ll move above Cowdenbeath. Stenhousemuir have been dragged into this relegation scrap as well. The Warriors are in terrible form and are just one point ahead of Cowdenbeath. If they lose at the Excelsior, and either Brechin or Cowdenbeath win, they’ll be edging towards the drop-zone. This is not the time to drop points.

One would imagine that, unlike the Queen of the South v Raith Rovers tie, this will be a tight affair. Neither team can afford to drop points and gift them to their relegation rivals; expect both to defend in numbers and try to sneak three points.

 

 

LEAGUE TWO: BERWICK RANGERS V CLYDE

Speaking of must win games. Clyde have been doing their upmost to hand East Fife the League Two title, losing at home to Arbroath and then letting Montrose score three before snatching a 90^th minute equaliser from the spot. Results last weekend gave the Fifers a four point lead heading into the final four rounds of fixtures. The Bully Wee entertain East Fife at Broadwood next weekend and thus can’t afford to drop points against Berwick Rangers if they still have ambitions of lifting the title. But this is going to be a tough match.

Berwick have the third strongest form in the league. After collecting just 22 points from their opening 22 games of the season, the English club have picked up 18 from their last ten matches. In that time they’ve lost just two games – a 2-1 defeat at Broadwood and a 1-0 loss against Annan Athletic. More impressive is their home form. The Black and Gold are undefeated in their last seven at Shielfield Park. In their last four home games they’ve beaten Elgin City, Stirling Albion, Arbroath and Montrose; it’s as tough a ground to visit as any at the moment.

If East Fife defeat Montrose in Methil and Clyde lose, it will create a seven point gap, with just three games to go. Essentially, any hopes of attaining automatic promotion to League One is over.