Archibald’s new boys share Latin rhythm at Dens Park

AIRDRIE’S new overseas signings enjoyed their first taste of Scottish football when they took in Dundee’s opening-day win at Motherwell.

Steve Archibald, Airdrie’s new owner, invited the seven Spaniards, one Frenchman and an Argentine to Fir Park to watch the action.

Like the Lanarkshire club, there has been an influx of foreign signings at Dundee over the summer. They gelled quickly, helping the Dens Park side to a 2-0 win.

"Like everyone else, they were greatly impressed," said Archibald. "I wanted them to get a feel for our game and this match was ideal. Dundee, of course, were fielding a few foreigners and I wanted my guys to see how they settled into the pace of our game.

"They had a word with Javier Artero before and after the match and they were thrilled when he netted his solo goal."

There was no rest for the Broomfield foreign contingent yesterday, though, as Archibald put them through their paces.

"We are still a bit behind in our fitness levels, but we are working hard at rectifying that," said Archibald.

"I gave the Scots lads a day off because we all put in a good shift on Saturday morning and early afternoon before I took the new boys to Motherwell.

"Every other team have a head start on us, so we must be totally focused on catching up. I might try to fix up a closed doors game at some stageduring the week. At the moment we have had no 90-minute match."

Archibald’s new signings are Miguel Alfonso (from Real Zaragoza), Mariano Aguilar (Manchego), Sanchez Broto (Malaga), Antonio Calderon (Unio Esportiva), Salva (Sporting Gijon), Fabrice Moreau (Numancia), Garcia Sanjuan (Cordoba), David Fernandez(Deportivo) and Argentine striker Martin Prest.