Ryan Strachan believes Cove Rangers can break into League 2’s top four next season.
Cove are preparing for their first season in the SPFL following promotion through the pyramid play-off and for Strachan, who played in League 1 with Peterhead, the aims ought to be high.
It is still another three weeks until they find out who their opening league fixture will be against in the fourth tier, with teams such as Annan Athletic, Elgin City and Cowdenbeath on the agenda.
They also have the Betfred Cup draw to look forward to today, with the potential for some games against new league opposition.
It might be the first foray in the Scottish leagues for Cove but for Strachan and the squad, a lot of them will be treading over familiar ground.
He said: “Aspirations are for the chairman, board and manager to decide but I would certainly want to be in the top four.
“We’ve got a good group of guys that have been at League 1 and League 2 level. It’s not like we’re going into the unknown – the club is but not the players.
“There’s some of the younger guys who have been at Aberdeen as well, so there’s real experience through the spine of the team. I’m sure we’ll recruit well and there’s no reason why we shouldn’t be up there challenging.”
Last year in the Betfred Cup Cove were drawn against Raith Rovers, Caley Thistle, Hearts and Cowdenbeath, beating Raith 2-0 at home and only losing 2-1 to the Jambos.
Strachan added: “It’s something for us to look forward to and hopefully we get a decent enough draw. It’ll be a good way to prepare for the new season.”
The summer departure of Eric Watson, who leaves the club after 12 years, means there is a vacancy for the club captaincy. Mitch Megginson is in pole position for the role, having filled in during Watson’s absence last season.
Strachan said: “He will be the leading candidate but to be honest, we’ve got a squad full of captains.
“Everyone is well-respected and whoever the manager decides to give it to, we will be on board with.”