Craig set to Brew up some progress

0 Comments | Sunday Mirror, Aug 3, 2008 | by RAY HEPB

INVERNESS Caley Thistle boss Craig Brewster reckons it's all to play for this season - with little between the sides outside those chasing the big prizes at the top.

Now in his second spell in the Highlands, Brewster took his squad to Denmark for pre-season and is delighted with the results.

Scoring goals could be a problem for Brewster's men, now that Romanian Euro 2008 star Marius Niculae has moved to Dinamo Bucharest for pounds 500,000.

But perhaps 21-year-old Rory McAllister is now ready to fulfil his potential at Premier League level, after he hit a friendly hat- trick against Herfolge in Denmark.

The manager has moved to bring cover into every department of the side during the summer break, with former Aberdeen keeper Ryan Esson moving from Hereford.

Up front, Andy Barrowman has been signed from neighbours Ross County while French recruit Lionel Djebi-Zadi will add to the defensive alternatives.

Caley Thistle have a fairly kind introduction to the new season - the fixture computer has very conveniently kept them away from the Old Firm until mid-October.

"The trip to Denmark was ideal for the players - they got among the goals in the pre-season matches and worked very hard," Brewster said.

"The fitness levels are good, there was a good tempo in the matches we played over there and it was great for the players to get away together.

"I don't think there will be much between the rest this season - like most clubs we have to work within a budget, but we have added options to the squad.

"On our day we are capable of beating any of the sides round about us in the table. What we need to find is the ability not to be beaten by any of them on a bad day.

"It's sure to be very tight from the middle of the table down - a couple of wins will carry you a few places up the table and a couple of defeats will take you down by the same degree.

"I am happy with the way we have prepared.

"We have Aberdeen to play in the first game of the season, and I think that game will be an interesting guide for both sides."

INVERNESS CALEY THISTLE Founded: 1994

Top flight record: Best finish 7th (2006)

Did you know?

Marius Niculae was the first Romanian ever to play professional football in Scotland.