Summer of rebuilding at Griffin Park

Last updated : 04 August 2005 By Chris Mumby
The Bees lost out in the play-offs to Sheffield Wednesday but Allen has strengthened his side well, out have gone much of the older guard like John Salako, Jamie Lawrence, Stewart Talbot, Andy Myers and Deon Burton, and in has come a younger stream of talent.

The Bees have snapped up young Chelsea left-back Sam Tillen, who Allen rates very highly. Also in has come 22-year-old Icelandic ex-Arsenal midfielder Ola Skulasson, a player with a lot of potential.

One of the stars of Yeading’s FA Cup run last season has also arrived at Griffin Park. DJ Campbell will be hoping to make an impression with his first shot at professional football. Whilst also coming in adding proven quality and experience are Reading duo Lloyd Owusu and Paul Brooker.

Owusu rejoins the club for a second spell and will be hoping that winger Brooker will provide the supply line for him.

The Iron open the season with a trip to Brentford on Saturday and they couldn’t have hoped for a harder start to the campaign, but it could be the ideal time to play a club that has lost so many players this summer, and it may take time for the new signings to settle in.

Under a talented manager like Allen you would expect a promotion push from his side, but with tougher competition this time around. It may not be so easy.