Published: Tuesday, 27th July, 2010 1:00pm

Fairydean warm up for new season

GALA Fairydean gaffer Fraser Lothian revealed he hopes to sign as many as five new players before the new season kicks-off next month.

Former Hibs striker Geri Rossi made his debut for the Netherdale club in a 2-1 friendly win over East Calder United on Saturday.

However, the former Vale of Leithen forward has yet to commit his future to the club.

And young midfielder Craig McBride, formerly of Hutchie Vale, has also been training with the East of Scotland First Division club ahead of their first competitive match against local rivals Hawick Royal Albert on August 14.

The 'Dean are warming up for the Borders derby with three friendlies in five days next week.

They line-up against Newtongrange Star on the back pitches at Netherdale next Tuesday, July 27, at 7pm. That will be followed by home games against Edinburgh City on Thursday, July 29, and Haddington on Saturday, July 31.

Speaking to the Border Telegraph this week, Lothian said: "It's not been easy getting players (to sign) but we hope to have four or five new faces in the squad for the start of the season.

"I have been disappointed by the lack of commitment shown by some potential targets we have approached in the amateur league about the possibility of making the step up. It seems they are content to play with their mates whereas, previously, players would always strive to play at the highest level."

And he added: "Last year we lost 11 players throughout the course of the season but the guys that are still here are the ones that want to play for the club."

Earlier this month, the Border Telegraph revealed 'Dean midfielder Paul Hossack, the club's Player of the Year last season, was the latest player to sign for near neighbours Selkirk.

The club's former top goalscorer Des Sutherland is also training with the Yarrow Park side, which boasts no fewer than six former Gala players in their squad.

However, Lothian, who admitted he was "disappointed" Hossack had left to join the Premier Division club, has invited former Gala Hotspur player of the year, Niall McGurn, who played for Kelso United last season, and former Peebles winger Ross Glass, who left the club at the turn of the year, to train with his squad.

Lothian said: "I was quite happy with the performance on Saturday - going forward we looked quite good. We are always looking to add some experience to the squad help the younger players but financially that is not always possible.

"Gala is a big club and some people want instant success but there are some cracking players in the town and, with our new under 19 team, I believe our younger players are our future."

Jamie Gibson and Chris Anderson netted the goals in Gala Fairydean's 2-1 win over East Calder United at the weekend.