Johnstone Burgh manager Murdo MacKinnon has started his summer rebuild at Keanie Park as he aims to put his own stamp on the squad.

The former Cumnock and Pollok boss took over towards the end of the 2023/24 season and went on to guide his new team to promotion by picking up seven wins in eight games.

He has since ensured key players such as Kyle Lafferty, Del Esplin and Malky McDonald will be sticking around for Premier Division football next season.

This week, the club announced that Jason Naismith, Kieran Brophy, Blair Rossiter, Conner McGlinchey, Darren Christie, Noah Young, Craig Menzies, Stuart McCann, Gary McCann and Luke Scullion will also remain at Keanie Park for the 2024/25 campaign.

However, MacKinnon has confirmed that Dale Simeon has left the club after his contract expired, while Ross MacKenzie has been made available for transfer.

He told Gazette Sport: “Dale is a really good lad and he departs with our best wishes.

“We had a good conversation and we get on well and he felt it was best for him to go and look for more regular football, which I understand. He won’t be short of offers.

“Ross is available for transfer. I think it is best he goes and gets regular game time.

“He won’t be short of offers either, as he’s a really good footballer.”

Pre-season preparations are well underway for MacKinnon as he plans ahead for a return to the training pitch and organises some friendlies.

MacKinnon, who is also busy trying to bring in some new faces, admits it is critical to get pre-season right.

He said: “Preparing properly is really important in this league.

"I know the standard well and it’s extremely tough, so getting a good start is important.”

Burgh will again host the John Grant Tournament at Keanie Park this summer.

Matches will be played on June 28, 29 and 30, with Glenvale, Maryhill and Irvine Meadow all joining Burgh to battle it out in a pre-season extravaganza that will raise funds for the RAMH (Recovery Across Mental Health) charity.

Burgh will also make the long journey to Peterhead to face Longside in a friendly.

Supporters are invited to make the trip north to cheer on their heroes, with transport, an overnight hotel stay and entertainment all included in a special package.