Luncarty manager Robbie Holden has been “pleasantly surprised” at the impressive fitness levels of returning players.
The Bleachers are back in full-contact training at Brownlands Park and working towards the start of the East of Scotland League season.
Members of the squad were given their own programmes to work on during the COVID-19 lockdown and Holden is delighted with the results.
After getting back into training, Holden said: “One week we thought we were getting back and then it was postponed a bit longer.
“We ended up giving the guys individual plans, rather than make up sessions that were difficult to manage with all of the restrictions in place.
“When we got the nod for full-contact training we brought them back in. There has certainly been a buzz about the place with everybody back together.
“Every time we see some optimism and a target date for getting back, it gives us another lift. It feels another step closer to the return of football again.
“Everybody is raring to go. I’ve been really surprised with how good they are all looking.
“The sessions have been quite hard over the past week but the standard has been excellent. Everyone is really putting the effort in.
“I’m pleasantly surprised with the condition that everyone is in.”
Two players whose fitness levels have been standing out are recent signings Craig Mitchell and Lewis Mackie.
“In terms of fitness, the new guys in Craig and Lewis are right up at the top of the group,” Holden told the PA.
“It’s been a brilliant start for the two of them and they've set a standard. That is a good way to endear yourself to your new team-mates.”
Another new arrival at Brownlands Park is Kevin Sinclair, who was playing with Jeanfield Swifts last season.
“We’ve got Kevin in,” Holden confirmed. “I wasn’t expecting him to be moving on from Jeanfield but, when we got told, we moved quickly to get him.
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“I know he has done well at Jeanfield and I’d seen him over the years at Scone and even back to the early days at Kinnoull.
“I’ve watched his development closely and I think it’ll be a big addition for us.”
Subject to Scottish Government approval, competitive league football is set to make its return in October.
Holden said: “Matchday protocols are being worked on at the moment and we’re expecting to hear more shortly.”
The East of Scotland League has held the draw for the 2020/21 King Cup, where Luncarty were handed a home first round tie against Rosyth.
Alan Cameron’s Kinnoull also received a home game and will face St Andrews United.
