It would appear that Edinburgh are looking to maintain the core of their 1999 squad for next season.
John Campbell admitted in the Edinburgh Pink:
"I'd like to include everybody from last season, except James Grieves, but it's not possible."
In fact, the increase in the points limit to 45 and the 2.5% reduction in the averages for British riders makes it possible for Monarchs to retain their end of season declared line-up with the substitution of a new 3.00 point reserve (the mystery rider mentioned last week?) for the 'retired' Justin Elkins.
Obviously James Grieves has now been replaced by Robert Eriksson and Brian Turner could well be wanted back by Glasgow. Edinburgh do have David McAllan available to return at reserve.
Robert Eriksson is a Monarchs asset and has agreed terms. No problems are anticipated with Peter Carr while the signing of Ross Brady is still awaiting clearance from Peterborough.
The hints appearing in the press would appear to indicate that Monarchs want Kevin Little and Blair Scott to join Peter Carr, Robert Eriksson, and Ross Brady. The team could then be completed (just) within the 45 point limit by adding David McAllan and a three pointer at reserve. One possible team would look like this:
| 1. | Robert Eriksson | 9.04 |
| 2. | Blair Scott | 5.36 |
| 3. | Kevin Little | 7.70 |
| 4. | Ross Brady | 6.73 |
| 5. | Peter Carr | 9.32 |
| 6. | Reserve | 3.00 |
| 7. | David McAllan | 3.83 |
| 7. | Total | 44.98 |
Problems have emerged with Kevin Little who has been asking for more that the Monarchs promotion are prepared to pay.
John Campbell suggested that this could threaten Little's place in the team:
"Kevin is a potential member of our team, as are others. We haven't decided anything with him as yet. Riders always make it clear what sort of money they are looking for. As always, it's way over the top. We as a club then have to decide whether we bother or do we go for someone else. That's the situation we're in with Kevin."
"Riders ask for what they believe they are worth. And I agree they are probably worth that. Unfortunately, there wouldn't be any speedway in this country if we agreed to their demands. Over the years I have sympathized with riders but we cannot pay them. We have to barter them down into submission or go elsewhere."
"Since Kevin lodged his request I haven't spoken too him about terms. There are other things going on right now. We'll have to wait and see if Kevin returns or not".
Kevin was not divulging what he was asking for but argued that it was not exessive:
"I have been told I'm in Edinburgh's plans and I'm awaiting an answer from them. I've indicated what I would like in order to be ride next year. The amout has nothing to do with anybody else. I hope to be back with Monarchs because I have enjoyed my first year as skipper and now I have 12 months more experience under my belt. However if we cannot agree terms then who knows where I'll be."
Little made an interesting comment about the departure of James Grieves:
"I'm disappointed that James won't be back at Armadale. But James did what was best for James and I think he made the right choice."
Monarchs are adopting a top down approach to team-building, unlike the middle out approach of last season. This means that until the Kevin Little issue is settled there can be no decision on Blair Scott and Stewart McDonald. They were Monarchs' first signings last year. John Campbell added:
"It's a jigsaw and until such times as the next piece fits in, I can't say whether they will be in the side There is another rider to be fitted in before I can make a final decision."
"I've heard stories suggesting that Blair definately won't be riding and that I've refused other clubs permission to speak to him. The is that no clubs have asked to talk to him. And if they did I would refuse."
Blair has been linked to a couple of clubs but with Workington having completed their team and Berwick unable to fit him in, his local options are running out.
Blair is rather concerned about his position:
"I don't want to be sitting at the turn of the year without a club to go to. I've heard unofficially that if Kevin is in, then I'm in. I don't know if that will happen. It depends on what Kevin has asked for. I'm not sure how it's going to go. I'm totally in the dark. I just wish someone would inform me one way or another in order that I can put my mind at ease."
"I certainly don't want to leave Monarchs. I'm an Edinburgh rider through-and-through. However it wouldn't be the end of the world if I did. Equally if I'm not in Edinburgh's plans I don't want to end up on the sidelines. And right now a lot of clubs are filling up their teams for next season."