SPFL

Falkirk have secured a major boost ahead of the new season with influential midfielder Brad Spencer committing his future to the club until 2028. The 29-year-old, who has become a central figure under manager John McGlynn, signed a new three-year contract extension on Thursday morning, with the deal including an option for a further year. Brad is the son of former Rangers, Chelsea and Scotland striker John Spencer. He started his career as a youth player in the United States at Portland Timbers, where his father was head coach before moving to Houston Dynamo, another of his father’s former clubs. He then started his professional career back in Scotland with Kilmarnock but did not make any appearances before spells at Dumbarton, Forfar Athletic and Raith Rovers, where he won League One in 2020 and the Challenge Cup in 2022. Spencer arrived at the Falkirk Stadium in June 2023 and has played a pivotal role in the club’s recent resurgence, helping guide the Bairns to back-to-back league titles. He famously scored a penalty against Alloa Athletic that sealed Falkirk’s unbeaten League One campaign in 2023/24 and went on to captain the side for much of their William Hill Championship-winning season last term. His standout performances in midfield were recognised across the division, earning him the PFA Championship Player of the Year award for 2024/25. Delighted with the news, manager John McGlynn hailed Spencer’s influence on and off the pitch. Speaking to Falkirk’s club site he said: “It’s great news for every Falkirk fan that Brad has extended his contract. It shows his commitment to the football club. “Brad’s been outstanding from the moment he walked in the door. He’s taken on a lot more responsibility since Coll Donaldson has been out injured and has stepped up. “He played every minute of every game last season, but you can see the difference when he isn’t there. “He’s a key member of the squad and we’re absolutely delighted that he’s committed to the club.” Falkirk will return to the topflight for the first time in over a decade this season, and tying down their midfield linchpin sends a strong signal of intent. With Spencer tied up the Bairns have a strong midfield with other options such as Scott Arfield, Calvin Miller and Ethan Ross to choose from as they look to re-establish themselves as a Premiership club this term.

Falkirk have had a busy pre-season schedule, three matches to win the Stirlingshire Cup kicked off their preparations before a defeat to Edinburgh City and a duo of 4-2 victories over East Fife and Raith Rovers. They still have one more warm-up bout remaining against St Johnstone, with whom they swapped leagues with last year, before heading into competitive Premier Sports Cup on July 12. Key Signings Strengthen the Squad The Bairns have secured the signing of former Partick Thistle captain and joint-caretaker manager Brian Graham, as well as the loan signing of Lewis Neilson from William Hill Premiership rivals Hearts as John McGlynn keeps the faith with his back-to-back title winning team. The only other addition to the first team squad has been that of goalkeeper Scott Bain from Celtic, a rather unusual addition to the squad as McGlynn’s side possess a very good goalkeeper in former Rangers and Nottingham Forest youth Nicky Hogarth. Preseason Goalkeeper Rotation and Competition During preseason McGlynn has opted to rotate his keepers with Bain and Hogarth each playing in three matches and does not yet appear to have settled on a number one for their return to the top flight of Scottish football. While Hogarth retains the jersey, Bain arrives with a wealth of experience, having picked up 14 honours during his spell as a backup with the Hoops and three Scotland caps, while his goalkeeping rival Hogarth has played over 80 matches these past two seasons helping the Bairns rise from William Hill League 1 to the Premiership. Comparing the Keepers: Bain vs Hogarth Bain brings a calm, authoritative presence to the Falkirk goal, known for his strong command of the penalty area and shot-stopping abilities honed at the highest level of Scottish football. His experience in big-game situations and ability to organize defenders makes him a valuable asset, particularly in tight, high-pressure matches as well as his experience working with some of the nations best defenders. In contrast, Hogarth offers a more agile and reactive style, relying on quick reflexes and sharp decision-making. His ability to distribute the ball effectively with both hands and feet allows Falkirk to launch swift counterattacks, an increasingly important trait in modern football. Hogarth also has more long term benefits as a good season for the side in the top flight could see some big offers arrive for the stopper. What Lies Ahead for Falkirk Between the Sticks? The contrast between Bain’s measured composure and Hogarth’s athleticism gives McGlynn a tactical choice depending on the opposition and match situation. Bain’s veteran experience could prove crucial in cup competitions or matches requiring defensive solidity, while Hogarth’s youth and agility suit the fast-paced demands of league play, especially as Falkirk adapt to the Premiership’s rigours. As the Bairns prepare for their final warm-up against St Johnstone, McGlynn’s decision over the number one goalkeeper remains to be seen. However, with two highly capable custodians in Bain and Hogarth, Falkirk can face the upcoming season with confidence in their last line of defence. In case of emergency Falkirk also have Jamie Sneddon as a reliable third option with over a century of appearances for Partick Thistle, giving the divisions new boys one of the strongest goalkeeping departments in the league.