LIFE inched one step closer to normality for Alloa Athletic’s first team squad last week when they returned to training. 

Peter Grant was delighted to welcome back his players for the first time since March after football was placed into lockdown by the Covid-19 pandemic. 

Things look a little different for the Wasps, however, with strict protocols in place to ensure the club is compliant with Scottish FA guidelines. 

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This includes a ban on the use of changing facilities, the implementation of Test and Protect protocols, and the wiping down of all equipment before and after training. 

Strange circumstances, then, for new boy Ray Grant to meet his team-mates, but he was just delighted to finally be in Clacks. 

 

The 23-year-old joined fellow signings Nicky Jamieson and Innes Murray – who will complete his deal previously revealed by Advertiser Sport on Tuesday – as Peter Grant put his Wasps through their paces. 

“It’s just a relief you are able to play now,” Ray told Advertiser Sport. “It’s a little bit of normality and this is such a big part of life for everyone.

“Even for supporters getting the chance to go to games or to the pub beforehand. People have little things they do like meeting up with pals.

“That’s us getting back to the way it was. I’ve really enjoyed getting back to training and it has been really enjoyable getting to go into a new club.

Alloa and Hillfoots Advertiser: Alloa new boy Ray Grant Alloa new boy Ray Grant

“It’s one thing when people found out I was going to Alloa and the boys I have played with at Clyde told me I was going into a great changing room and club.”

A number of Wasps continue to be closely monitored by the backroom staff due to injuries picked up towards the end of last season. 

This includes Jon Robertson and Andy Graham. 

The Wasps skipper is still recovering from discitis, which had threatened to end his career. 

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Ray Grant, who came up through the Norwich City academy, said: “We aren’t allowed in the changing room because of the protocols in place right now but it is a great group and they have been thoroughly welcome. 

“They have been fantastic the past week and I have really enjoyed it. 

“There are certain numbers we need to stick to and different pitch dimensions, although I must admit I am still getting used to it myself.

“There were a few boys who got injured towards the end of the season and they are still taking it easy.”