Tranmere kick-off a busy pre-season campaign with an interesting fixture at Dunfermline on Saturday before they host Liverpool on Tuesday.
Overview
Rovers have spent the last five days training in Scotland at St Andrews University, the same venue used by the likes of Barcelona, Manchester United and the Scottish national team in the past.
When the match against Dunfermline was initially arranged, it was expected to be played behind-closed-doors, but it has now become a fully-fledged 3pm kick-off at East End Park. There is a fair amount of interest from local fans as well we the travelling SWA.
Low-down on Dunfermline
Allan Johnston’s side were unlucky to miss out on promotion back to the SPL last season. They were beaten in the play-off quarter finals by Dundee United, going out 2-1 on aggregate.
The summer has seen plenty of action as far as transfers go. They’ve lost Fraser Aird who has moved to Dundee United, while ex-Man City youngster Willo Flood joined on a free transfer only to leave nine days later to join Bali United. Midfielder James Vincent has joined on loan though.
This will be Dunfermline’s third pre-season game already. They lost 2-1 at Raith Rovers on Wednesday but won by the same scoreline at East Fife last weekend. Two teenagers scored the goals in that win; Matty Todd and Lewis McCann.
Rovers ready to get going
Saturday will be the first outing for Micky Mellon’s team since that sensational victory at Wembley Stadium nearly two months ago. Many members of that squad remain part of the club and will feature in Scotland tomorrow.
We understand that skipper Steve McNulty is a doubt, while Adam Buxton definitely misses out. New boys Mark Ellis, Manny Monthe, Jake Caprice, Paul Mullin and Ollie Banks will see some action.
Despite speculation linking him with a move to Shrewsbury, midfielder Ollie Norburn is with the squad and fit. He should take part tomorrow. Ben Tollitt is also fit again and will benefit from substantial game time during this pre-season.
Midfielder James Wallace will not feature. He is out-of-contract and training with Fleetwood Town where he has so far impressed boss Joey Barton. Wallace was invited back to train with Rovers in pre-season, but it now looks as though his Prenton Park career is finished.
Also expect some trialists to feature tomorrow.
