The apparent agreement of Premier League promoters on a 45 point limit for next year means that tracks can commence team-building. Despite the increase in the points-limit from 41 to 45, Monarchs will still have to lose riders. Alex Harkess commented:
"Because the limit will be higher, it doesn't make it any easier in formulating a team for next season. We have ideas in our head as to the changes we wont to make, but that's all they are at the moment."
Harkess wasn't giving much away as to team plans but dropped a few hints. He was asked by David Kinvig if Ross Brady's increased average would present problems for team building:
"We knew and expected that Ross's average would increase. It's up to us to work round that if we can agree a deal with him."
While Ross is very keen to move up to heat leader but Harkess said:
"The likelihood is that Ross would come in at second string."
Harkess also refuted suggestions that Robert Eriksson would be returning to Edinburgh after a successful loan spell with Newcastle:
"He won't fit into our team and we are very sorry about that."
All this indicates that Monarchs could be set to retain their top four from 1999. The fact that a return by Robert Eriksson has been ruled out suggests that James Grieves will be in for a second year. Eriksson would have been a perfect replacement for Grieves. The hint that Ross Brady would be in at second string means that it is likely that Kevin Little would stay as third heat leader.
Monarchs apparent interest in three point riders, notably Aiden Collins, could be taken to indicate that the top five might be retained.
The only way that Edinburgh can keep the top five from the 1999 line-up is to go with two three-point reserves. This could produce a really powerful squad if the right reserves are signed. There are few three-point riders who have the potential to make the sort of impression that Ross Brady made this year. Hence Monarchs interest in Aiden Collins. Another possibility is Collins's Buxton teams-mate Lee Smethills. Monarchs are likely to face stiff competition for such riders.