Luke Who’s Back!

FC Isle of Man’s first pre-season game brings with it a squad full of old and, some new, faces.

One name that will be of particularly interest to Ravens fans is Luke Murray, who missed a large chunk of last season.

With Paul Jones taking the wheel for his first full season in charge, the Ravens are looking for a strong pre-season, particularly with the league kicking off in just 15 days time.

The two new faces to Jones’ squad are Braddan’s Harry Callin and Rushen’s Ste Riding. Paul Jones said: ‘Harry has been training with us for a while now, since turning 16, to support his development as a Goalkeeper and he really has impressed us all with his attitude, temperament, commitment and consistency within our training environment.’

He added: ‘Ste will is well-known (renowned) in the Manx football community for not only being a really good footballer who is capable of excelling in a number of positions but also a thoroughly good human who is a delight to be around.

‘His personality and game understanding are already shining through and we are sure he will make a great contribution to the group over the season.’

Tough

Jones has been highly complimentary of his players, especially the new ones to train with FC Isle of Man ahead of what will be a long and challenging season.

This Saturday sees the Ravens welcome National League North side Brackley Town to the Bowl, which Jones said will be ‘an extremely tough game against opponents from three steps above us in the pyramid’.

He added: ‘The group are really looking forward to the challenge on Saturday as we keep working to improve our performance levels on both sides of the ball. 

‘We are especially looking forward to being back at the Bowl and connecting with our fantastic supporters.  We hope as many of you as possible can join us on Saturday and as always we will do the very best we can on your behalf. 

‘Let’s get behind the lads. Together our community is capable of awesome things and we can’t wait to get going again this season!’

SQUAD NEWS:

Harry Callin, Ben Wilkinson, Sam Baines, Ryan Burns, Jamie Corlett, Jacob Crook, Jack Higgins, Al Maitland, Tom Shimmin, Blake Henwood, Charlie Higgins, Dean Leece, Jack McVey, Ste Riding, Mike Williams, Ste Whitley, Frank Jones and Luke Murray.

This weekend’s game kicks off at 6.30pm and tickets are available here.