Four key Albion players have signed on for 2013/14 ahead of their trip tomorrow (Saturday) to play Rangers at Ibrox.
Former Raith midfielder Mark Ferry, ex-Hearts forward Graham Weir, former Alloa utility man David McClune and ex-Forfar defender Jamie Bishop have all committed their future to the Binos.
Ferry has bagged nine goals from midfield after a slow start to the season, Weir has hardly missed a game and has a terrific ability to link the play, McClune has shone in a central midfield role and Bishop has been outstanding at the back since moving from Station Park.
Youngsters Stephen Day, Ross McGeachie and Sandy Cunningham were already under contract for next season and Albion boss Greig McDonald is looking to tie down more of his current squad.
He said: “While Marc McCulloch and I are looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead for the remainder of this season, it was also vital that we started to plan for the future and these signings are a huge step in the right direction.”
Operations director Stuart Brown said: “I am delighted that we’ve been able to get these four key players to put pen to paper and commit their future to Stirling Albion for next season.
“Discussions are ongoing with a number of other squad members and, with the players knowing who is at the helm for next season, I’m confident that further signings will follow.”
Ferry added: “The squad is absolutely buzzing with the news that Greig and Marc are to remain in charge next season.
“It made my decision easy when Greig offered me terms and I had no hesitation in signing on and I’m sure all the boys felt the same. There’s still plenty to play for this season but it’s also great to know that the club are looking ahead.”
Stirling will make a little bit of history tomorrow when they feature in a live TV game for the first time, with ESPN screening their game against Rangers, kick-off at noon.
Brian Allison and Kieran McAnespie miss out due to suspension but Gary Thom returns from a one-match ban and keeper David Crawford, defender Ross McGeachie and forward Graham Weir are all available again after injury.
Rangers will be without midfielder Ian Black, who was sent off in Saturday’s 1-0 win at Elgin, top scorer Andy Little is on international duty with Northern Ireland and Dean Shiels is injured.
Ally McCoist’s side are on the brink of the Third Division title and will seal the championship if they beat the Binos and Queen’s Park fail to win at Annan later in the day.
Stirling have impressed against the runaway leaders, winning 1-0 at Forthbank and losing only 2-0 at Ibrox before fighting back to draw 1-1 last month.
Experienced SPL official Craig Thomson is in charge tomorrow as Albion return to action for the first time since their record-breaking 9-1 win over East Stirlingshire a fortnight ago.
Stirling Albion Lottery numbers this week are 12, 30, 33 and 39. There was no jackpot winner so the jackpot rises to £14,000. Four three-number winners each get £62.50.
