Duffy begins Dumbarton rebuilding job with two new additions

The 60-year-old finalised talks with the board last week and confirmed he would be staying on in the dugout until the end of the season.

Talks were taking place to determine the budget and iron out the goals for the upcoming campaign with Duffy admitting the fact that his budget is small compared to other clubs in the division.

He said: “I wouldn’t say that [I’m satisfied with the budget].

“The resources are nowhere near the level that some other clubs in the division are at. We have to accept it.

“It’s important to let supporters know that the budget is less than last year - it’s not an increase, it’s not the same, it’s less.

“It’s going to be difficult but it’s not like it’s halfway through the season and someone tells you the situation has changed. I know from day one so it’s fine.

“I’ll work with it and try and get the best players available for the budget. It’s going to be tough so we have to work hard and get a few breaks along the way.

“Like any manager you want to try and give it a go with your team and your players over a full season.”

The squad rebuilding is already underway with the news that Ross Forbes, Calum Gallagher, Bobby Barr and Craig Barr have decided that their futures lie elsewhere.

Forbes has joined fellow League One side Forfar Athletic whilst Craig and Gallagher look set to sign for Airdrieonians. Bobby, meanwhile, has moved to East Stirlingshire in the Lowland League.

However, two mainstays of the Sons midfield from last season have verbally agreed to stay at the club and Duffy has also moved to sign two new players with Stefan McCluskey joining from Pollok and Morgyn Neill signing a one-year-deal after leaving Stenhousemuir.

McCluskey links up with Duffy for the third time and the Sons boss knows exactly what to expect from the forward thinking player.

Duffy added: “I’m just waiting to get Stuart Carswell and Kyle Hutton confirmed but hopefully they’ll continue with us.

“They have both indicated that they are keen to stay but you’re always slightly wary until the deal is done.

“Stef was a very important player for Pollok last season and he’s previously played in the First Division and done well for me.

“We’ve lost players at the top end of the pitch so to have someone who can fit in anywhere along that attacking line is a bonus.

“He’s direct and sharp and he works really hard. I think he’ll be a really good acquisition.

“With Morgyn, it was important to get someone with a bit of presence and also someone who knows the division.

“He wanted to come to the club and that enthusiasm is something we think is important.

“I’m delighted to get the two boys on board.”