Ayr Utd get busy in summer market

May 14 2008 Ayrshire Post

AYR United have continued their rebuilding with the capture of Elgin defender Allan Dempsie.

The former Hibs full back, who was named in last season’s Third Division Team of the Year, has signed a one year deal.

Dempsie, 25, broke into the Easter Road first team under Frenchman Frank Sauzee before winning rave reviews at Boroughbriggs.

And Ayr hope to complete a busy week in the transfer market by unveiling Alloa winger Scott Agnew, although the finer details of the deal have still to be agreed.

Boss Brian Reid revealed: “I’m glad to get Allan on board because he offers us something different at the back.

“He can play at both right back or left back and is a reliable, solid defender. We’ve had him watched on several occasions and the reports were always good.

“My main aim for next season is a stronger defence and Allan will play a big part in that.”

Reid will launch his search for more players by holding open trials at Somerset in July.

Both amateurs and professionals will have their chance to stake a claim at the shootout for a contract.

Reid admitted: “It will be interesting to see what we get. I’m still looking for players now but I’m not going to panic.

“My priority is a keeper, wide right players and strikers.”

Reid was left fuming, though, after learning of his touchline ban to start the new season.

He’ll sit out the first two games after his appeal against a sending off against Airdrie in February failed.

Reid sighed: “It’s farcial. I only questioned a decision during the game and I didn’t swear or abuse the official. In future I won’t waste my breath.”

Ayr have finally secured a date with Rangers for the Davie Harkness testimonial of Monday, July 28.

United will also play

Partick Thistle at Somerset on July 10 and are now planning trips to Morton and Crusaders in Northern Ireland.

In contract news, veteran Andy McLaren has still to sign the offer made to him, but Ayr do not anticipate any major problems.

And the club are set to launch their new strips, which will carry a special design in honour of Somerset Park.

The home and away kits hit shelves in the first week of July.

Chairman Lachlan Cameron revealed: “We want something on the strips to remember Somerset and are currently negotiating what we can do with the SFL.”