By Graeme Bletcher

DUNFERMLINE BOSS Jim McIntyre is preparing a new-look Pars squad for his second full season in charge, having shed experience but, he believes, brought in enthusiasm.

Like most Scottish clubs, the Fife outfit have been forced to cut their cloth in the close season and, by plundering the likes of Airdrie and Clyde, have brought in eager faces.

The signing of wingers Willie Gibson, Joe Cardle and Steven McDougall, added to current players Simon Wiles, David Graham and Paul Willis, states his intentions.

“We had a lot of experience last year and you do need that, but it doesn’t guarantee you anything and it didn’t last year,” said McIntyre.

“We have gone with a younger squad and we will see what that brings, but I have got faith in this group.

“They have played a lot of games and they know what this division is about and that is what we need.

“It is early days but it will be all about what we do on the football field.”

As ever, the first division is likely to be a tough league to predict, but many will be backing Dundee for the title after a summer of spending.

Although hardcore fans hark back to SPL glory days, McIntyre is realistic.

He said, “I don’t think we will be expected to win the league when you look at some of the other sides, but I expect to be at least up there.

“I think with the money Dundee are throwing about they are obviously favourite and you would be silly not to say that.

“I also think Morton will be strong this year and Queen of the South and Thistle will be up there.

“It really is such a tight league and don’t expect it to be any different next year.”

One thing fans can expect is passing football, with McIntyre pledging to “get the ball down and play.”

He said, “The players are never told to lump the ball up to Graham Bayne and it drives me nuts when that happens.

“It’s a different thing to play a good long pass and that is always on in the game of football.”

He added, “Everybody is on a clean slate and it depends how they do in pre-season.

“Obviously I’ve got ideas in my mind but there is always somebody who surprises you in pre-season.

“You are there to be impressed and everybody starts on the same pegging.”

Wiles is back into part-time training and has until the end of August to get fit and prove himself, while McIntyre also hopes for a speedy recovery.

“Simon is coming along great but he is not taking part every day.

“The physio is monitoring him and won’t let him take part in certain sessions.

“He is a real good bit off, where the rest of the players are, so it will be a big three months for him.

“If I was fit I would love to be included but my achilles is still giving me some problems.

“There is no way I am looking to retire.

“I just want to get fit and don’t want to keep coming back and breaking down, so I wont be doing anything until I’m 100%.”

The Pars will launch next season’s kit on Saturday, July 11, at the club shop at East End Park.

The price remains at £39 for an adults jersey and £29 for a junior shirt for the fourth year running.

Mini-kits for babies and ladies’ tops will also be available.

The away strip will be launched on July 31.

The Pars Lotto is entering the digital age when it officially goes online at www.parslotto.com.

The DAFC Pars Prize Lottery has been running for more than five years but the club reviewed its format and decided to relaunch and re-brand the game as Pars Lotto, with the chance of a jackpot up to £25,000.

As with the previous lottery any profits will help fund the under-19s youth team.