No late window shopping

The summer has seen eight players leave and just four come in, five if Allan Johnston ever gets round to signing the bit of paper that's been in front of him for the best part of a week. Of the eight that left two were loan signings, although we were still paying wages, while three were youngsters or fringe players. However, there have been no replacement youngsters coming through that are good enough for the SPL at present - the two that have been benchwarming so far are just there to make up the numbers.

The main problem is at the back. Three centre halves have departed, two have come in. Three left sided players have left, none have come in yet (although it remains to be seen where Johnston will play if he signs). Lee Mair is already doubtful for next week's game and Chris Innes has a knock, so if we had a game this weekend we'd have one natural central defender. We have no natural left back cover, while the left wingers are rather injury prone - although they don't seem to be getting a chance even when fit.

The defensive options do not cater adequately for injuries, suspensions or loss of form. We have just three centre halfs and one left back. Every other position in the team (with the exception of right wing) is more than catered for - so why are we trying to sign a defender?

Of course, this isn't the only problem. We still lack the aforementioned right winger, a decent set piece taker, defenders with height and the odd player with pace. But then, these have been problems for years so it's no surprised the management are satisfied to take what we've got.

When you raise the lack of signings with folk they'll point out other SPL clubs are the same, a similar response to when concerns about the poor form were made last season. It's time to stop worrying about what other clubs are doing and focus on ourselves, but sadly it's too late for this transfer window.

Let's just hope we don't live to regret our inactivity in the transfer market this summer.