ARBROATH BOSS John McGlashan has completed a double signing swoop and had two members of the existing Lichties squad pen new deals as he begins preparations for life in the second division.
McGlashan has landed midfielder John Fraser, who was out of contract at Forfar, and freed Dundee winger Scott Gates on one-year contracts while goalkeeper Darren Hill and full-back Roddy Black have committed themselves to the club for at least the next 12 months.
Fraser (30) is the third player Arbroath have signed from the Loons in the space of five months after snapping up Alan Rattray and Paul Lunan during the transfer window. Having played for Dunfermline, Ross County, Clyde, Stranraer and Stirling as well as Forfar, he brings with him a wealth of experience.
Gates (20) spent the closing months of last season on loan to Cowdenbeath. He had previously been with Montrose on the same basis.
Cowden also offered him a one- year deal but the lure of playing in the second division with the the Fife outfit's play-off conquerors proved too strong.
McGlashan believes he is close to striking agreement on a new contract with skipper Barry Sellars while Alan Brazil is expected to get back to the club on the deal he has been offered before the weekend.
Last night the manager was in talks with the Lichties' longest- serving player, Steven Rennie, about extending his stay at Gayfield.