14-05-2025
Graeme Mathie says Ayr United squad 'well placed' to bounce back from play-off disappointment
The managing director says Ayr won't require huge summer surgery and will prioritise quality over quantity.
Graeme Mathie insists Ayr United are 'well placed' to bounce back from their play-off disappointment.
The Honest Men fell flat on the big stage as they were knocked out by Partick Thistle on Friday night.
Boss Scott Brown has confessed he will need to recruit 'leaders' to take Ayr to the next level.
Mathie, the Somerset managing director, says the Jags defeat left the club floored. But he is adamant the foundations are already in place ahead of a summer rebuild.
He told the Ayrshire Post: 'We are in a far better place in terms of squad size and quality than we were at this time last year.
'A good core of players are signed for next season and that gives us a platform that means we're well placed to build.
'Everyone clearly felt the disappointment of the way the season ended, and there is no getting away from that.
'It was gutting for all concerned, but it is a sign of the progress being made that we now have a certain level of expectation around this club.
'My job is to ensure we remain level headed about things – whether at high points or the low.'
Mathie added: 'Twice in the last three years we've reached the promotion play-offs in the Championship – the challenge is to take that next step now.
'We need to bounce back from this disappointment but we will.'
Ayr are holding talks with out of contract players this week but it's unlikely there will be the usual summer exodus.
More than a dozen players are under contract and first teamers such as Scott McMann, Dylan Watret, Paddy Reading, Ben Dempsey, Marco Rus, George Oakley and Curtis Main are all signed for next season.
Rising star Watret has triggered an extension in his deal until 2028 following his breakout season, while goalkeeper Liam Russell has also signed on for another year.
It's also expected that Jamie Murphy will agree to stay on and expand his remit to include a coaching role.
The problem goalkeeper position – Ayr used five different players between the sticks last season – is set to focus minds during the summer.
United would ideally like to recruit an experienced number one, while a centre half with top leadership qualities will also head the shopping list.
