Harry Cairney Speaks to Arbroath-Mad

This evening I spoke to Harry Cairney, who answered afew questions put to him, some off which were from other fans on the messageboard, and some of which were my own. Below is the Questions in bold, and the answers below them.

With the friendlies out the way, what is your aim for the season?

“Obviously we want to be up in the top 4 challenging for promotion, we want to be up there hopefully challenging.”

What teams do you think will be up the top challenging?

“Well, I think there’s a number off teams will be up there. Berwick have kept most off their team from last season and will be up there. Stenhousemuir have made a good couple off signings, as have Cowdenbeath. Montrose finished 3rd last season, and they will challenge aswel. Possibly even Queens Park!”

Is the team now sorted for the season ahead, or are you likely to add a few more faces to the squad?

“Were still searching, if someone becomes available for the squad and there good enough then we probably have room for 1 more player.”

In the pre season friendlies, you have given youth a chance, do you intend to keep the youth players in the first team squad, or to loan them out to the juniors?

“We have signed Nicky Smith, and he will feature with the first team squad. Some off the others will be farmed out to the juniors club though, yes.”

Will you be playing an attacking style off football this season, or will you stick with previous seasons defensive tactics?

“Obviously we never approach any game trying to play defensively, but obviously with the teams last year being better than us, we got pushed back. This season we will try and play attacking football and be as entertaining as we can.”

Where do you see Arbroath in 3 years time?

“Well, hopefully we can get rid of the massive debts we’ve got, and get some income. We hopefully will attract better crowds and better players with that, which will take us up the divisions.”

With Jake Ferrier leaving to manage Carnoustie Panmure, will you be bringing another coach on board?

“Not at the moment. We will just wait to see how the season goes. Mike Cargill has offered to help with friendlies, and any reserve games we get.”

Do you think the players are fit enough going into the new season?

“Yeah, I would say some players being naturally fitter than others, but I think overall were fit enough. There are a few players who missed the pre season and need worked on but overall I think there fit enough.”

The challenge cup is looked down on by quite a few people. What are your views on the competition?

“I think it’s a great competition. It gives teams outside the premier an opportunity to win something. I used to enjoy playing in it and I know others do, and it does give teams the chance to win a trophy.”

Are you worried about the lack off experience in the team this year, especially upfront?

“Well I mean we’ve tried to sign experienced strikers, but anyone available has wanted full time football. We do have 2 good strikers, but if any become available, and we are still looking, and if there in the price bracket we will look at them.”

Would you put the bad performance against Dundee Violet down to tiredness from the weekend games?

“Yeah, I would think so. The guys had 5 games within the space of 8 days, and the boys looked a bit leg weary on the night.”

Do you read websites relating to the club?

“No. My wife does but I don’t!”

Thanks to Harry for taking the time to answer the questions.