HIBERNIAN manager Alex McLeish is set to get tough with his players, by cancelling their summer holidays and calling them back in for training.
The Easter Road boss yesterday revealed that players will have to report in for light work-outs once a week in the close season.
McLeish said: ''They have all had a good two week break in which we told them to do absolutely nothing at all.
''Now everyone is relaxed we can bring them in once a week for training to keep them in condition for the start of the season.
''Those who are lacking a bit of pace or strength will be expected to come in twice a week and do a little bit extra.''
McLeish has more than halved the size of the squad that was relegated from the premier division last season. And he realises Hibs can't afford to pick up any major injuries at the outset if they are to challenge for the title.
He added: ''We're going to be running with a fairly tight squad of around 20 or 22 players and we have to be meticulous in our preparation.
''When they report back for training on July 1 there is always a danger of picking up niggling injuries.
''That is something we want to avoid and this will help keep them ticking over nicely in the summer months.''
q RAITH Rovers manager Jimmy Nicholl has promised the club's fans that they will see the true Danny Lennon next season after the captain signed a new one-year deal to stay at the club.
The 28-year-old turned down offers from a number of premier division clubs to stay at Kirkcaldy, and Nicholl is looking forward to having a fully fit Lennon in his plans.
''There were times last season where Danny played when he should not have done, and I am sure that after a good rest he will be a different player next season,'' said the manager.
Meanwhile, Rovers are still favourites to sign freed midfielder Dave Bowman, although they may have to fend off a late approach from Livingston in order to get the former Dundee United player.
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