St Johnstone manager Derek McInnes will put mystery trialists under the microscope on Monday night as Saints kick off their pre-season countdown at Arbroath.
McInnes is keen to add to six summer signings and acquiring another striker is the priority.
After a week of training at Largs, the Perth boss will parade his recruits for the first time at Gayfield.
He said, “Davie Robertson, Sean Higgins, Carl Finnigan, Callum Davidson, Frazer Wright, and David McCracken will all be involved.
“The lads have responded very well to a tough programme, with the season only three weeks away. Now we have to get game time into them, here and in Ireland.
“We have played Arbroath in previous years and we know we can expect a tough game, especially with so many connections between the clubs.”
Ex-Saints midfielder Paul Sheerin steered the Red Lichties to the third division title in his first season as a manager.
McInnes said, “No one was more delighted about that than myself.
Paul was such a popular lad here and you always look out for the results of ex-teammates.”‘Hard game’He added, “There were a few ex-Saints in the Arbroath set-up. Wee Josh Falkingham had a great season and he still trains with us full-time, and they also have guys like Gavin Swankie and Steven Doris doing well for them.
“They are sure to provide us with a hard game and that is what we need at this stage.”
McInnes said, “We had a few trialists with us at Largs and one of two will feature against Arbroath.
“We head for Ireland on Wednesday for games against Drogheda and UCD, so we will make a decision on who comes with us after this one.”
Absent from Monday’s squad will be skipper Jody Morris and Murray Davidson, who are playing catch-up with their fitness.
Sheerin believes his newly promoted side are in good shape for their return to action.
He said, “The first game seems to have come around very quickly but the boys have remained in really good condition over the summer and we’re really looking forward to it.”‘Formidable’Among those who have made a good first impression on Sheerin are former Dundee United striker Jordan Elverson, who the Gayfield boss believes will give stiff competition to last season’s prolific partnership of Steven Doris and Gavin Swankie.
He said, “Gavin and Steven got 44 goals between them last season, so I’m sure they will be a formidable combination again.
“In my opinion they are capable of doing that again at the next level.
“But there will also be pressure on them as Jordan has been looking good in training up to now and will keep them on their toes.”
Meanwhile, another fixture has been organised for July 16 at Gayfield against Montrose.
Sheerin said, “The Montrose game is going to be very competitive and I’m sure it won’t be like a usual friendly due to the rivalry.”