Ayr Utd 'targeting keeper Craig Nelson'

May 28 2008 Ayrshire Post

AYR United are believed to be eyeing up former favourite Craig Nelson as a replacement for Mark McGeown.

But they are also spreading the net south of the border with a former Newcastle youth keeper set to head north for pre-season training.

Nelson, who is 37 this month, is under contract for another season at Brechin but that won’t stop Ayr casting envious glances.

The former Partick, Hearts, Falkirk and St Johnstone shot stopper spent five seasons at Ayr and played in the 2002 CIS Cup final.

Manager Brian Reid refused to be drawn on the speculation but admitted filling the goalie’s jersey is his number one priority.

He said: “I am looking at all avenues and have a few irons in the fire.

“There is a young English keeper, who is not under contract, who has been recommended and I’m hoping to have a look at him.”

Reid has already snapped up eight new faces but is looking to add a striker to complement top gun Alex Williams and new boy Bryan Prunty.

Meanwhile, almost 300 players have thrown their hats into the ring after Ayr revealed plans to hold trials.

A large number are youngsters with places also up for grabs in the United youth academy.

Ayr have added another pre-season game to their schedule. They will entertain Scottish Cup finalists Queen of the South on Tuesday July 15.