The New Look Grimsby Town

Craig Smith arrived at Grimsby Town at the end of last season with the club already relegated. He made it clear that big changes would be made at the club to prepare for life in the basement division with the aim of bouncing straight back up. The close season has been a busy time for Grimsby as the squad has undergone a complete revamp with only 3 players remaining at the club from the previous era. Here we look at the key signings that Smith will be hoping can return Grimsby to Division 4 at the first time of asking...

Paulo Andre - Age: 31, Rating: 85, Position: DC

Smith has heralded Paulo Andre as the key man for the club this season. He has already been appointed captain and at £2.2 million was the most expensive signing made. He will need to be a leader both on and off the pitch and will be key to any defensive success.

Mahir Saglik - Age: 32, Rating: 82, Position: FC

The Turkish striker has spent along time plying his trade in Germany with Paderborn and was very keen on a move to England. Grimsby will undoubtedly be looking to him to provide the majority of the goals to justify his £1.5 million price tag.

Alvaro Recoba - Age: 38, Rating: 82, Position: F RLC

Although 38 years old, the ex Inter Milan striker will no doubt add some real class to Grimsby's attacking play. Smith has reassured fans that despite Recoba's advancing years, he can still be a real asset to the club and also brings experience of playing at the very highest level.

Timo Rost - Age: 36, Rating: 82, Position: DM

Another experienced head in the ranks, the German will play an important role in protecting the Grimsby defence as he will be the anchorman of the team. Tough tackling and launching attacks will be key to his game.

Vladlen Yurchenko - Age: 21, Rating 78, Position: F RLC

The Ukranian youngster opted to leave Bayer Leverkusen in search of more first team football and will likely act as an important 3rd striker as the long English season takes its toll on Recoba's aging legs. A great future ahead of him, this kid is one for the future.

In addition to permanent signings, Smith has bolstered the ranks with the loan acquisitions of Ivan Cavaleiro, a highly creative and quick winger and Joan Roman who will likely play in the middle of the park. There is a real mix of youth and experience at Grimsby which is something the fans hope will work to their advantage. Its clear that youngsters such as Yurchenko, Ponce, Spehar and Piscitella are the real future of the club and the skills they can learn from the more experienced heads that have been recruited should be invaluable to their development.