Squad lacks depth: Millar

“I would love to bring more players in but, unfortunately, due to financial restrictions it’s unlikely that we will be signing many more,2 he said.

“Cost is simply prohibitive and I have to work with that in mind. While there is the possibility of securing a few loan players, I am not a great fan of that method of signing players,” explained the Inver manager.

“Come September, when some Premier League players realise that they are not getting the chance they crave at top level, they may be scouting about seeking opportunities lower down the ladder and it’s possible we could pick somebody up then. But even that’s unlikely.

“So, while I am pleased with the players we have already on the books, the fact is that it’s almost inevitable that the place where we will be found wanting in the new season will be in terms of strength in depth. We just won’t have the numbers to cope when injuries and suspensions cause problems, as they unquestionably will do – especially in the second half of the season.”

The manager was more than happy with what he saw on Saturday when Larne played their first pre-season match and only lost to Ballymena United to a late goal.

“It was a massively changed Larne team that was on duty on Saturday and I thought there were many encouraging performances from players who came into the new-look side.,” said Millar.

“Brian Neeson played his first game in goal for almost a year, having been kept out last season by Ryan Brown who was in the opposition nets this time. Brian’s a very good keeper and did extremely well on Saturday.

“New recruit David McDonald played at right back and looked very good, Reece Moore and Jamie Marsh looking solid in front of him, while ex-Moyola player Brian McClean performer very well in central midfield. Defender Gareth Larmour also caught the eye on his debut and Mark Craig looked pretty convincing up front with Davy Larmour.

“We also had the young local kids showing their paces as well and I was impressed with what I saw from Craig Todd, Scottie McNally and big Lee Thompson.

“In terms of the match, we did well and held Ballymena, who had played two or three matches already, to 1-1 for a long time. But they then brought on Andy Smith and he snatched a winner for them as we tired a wee bit towards the end. But, overall, I was very pleased with my team.

“Next up is another match at home this Saturday when we entertain Sporting Leisure, kick-off at 2.30pm” added Millar, who pointed out that Liam Carland and Robbie White are both expected down for pre-season training in the next week or so.