Motherwell's squad has undergone a transformation since the final play-off game on 31 May. First team regulars Long, Sutton, Erwin, Carswell, Ramsden, Francis-Angol and O'Brien, Straker moved on along with Lawson and Vigurs. McDonald's short term contract also ended although the door has not yet closed on his return.
Ainsworth was tempted to take up the offer of a two year deal and Johnson was happy to extend his stay until 2018. New faces Chalmers, Fletcher and Moult join the more familiar Clarkson for the 2015/16 season but there are still several empty pegs in the Fir Park changing room.
The trend for teams to pack up and ship out for a spell of intensive pre-season preparation is one that seems to find favour with players. It gives them an intensive week with no distractions and gives new players an excellent chance to familiarise themselves with their team-mates and the backroom staff.
The first practice match will take place on Tuesday against Borussia Moenchenglabach U23s in Rheden. That will be followed with a match against Eredivisie SC Heerenveen in Drachten. No doubt we'll have reports of the games but the usual proviso applies to these non-competitive affairs.
Meetings with Bradford City, Livingston and Preston North End will follow as the 1 August meeting with Inverness draws nearer.