Falkirk's McGlynn: Second season a tougher challenge after top-six finish

Falkirk manager John McGlynn has acknowledged that his side will face a tougher task in their second season back in the Scottish Premiership, after a surprise top-six finish in their first top-flight campaign in 15 years. Speaking to BBC Radio Scotland, McGlynn stressed that matching last season's achievements will be a significant challenge given the increased respect opponents will afford them.

The Bairns have undergone a significant squad overhaul during the summer, most notably losing top scorers Barney Stewart and Calvin Miller to West Bromwich Albion and Heart of Midlothian, respectively. McGlynn admitted that replacing such key contributors will be difficult but necessary to maintain competitiveness in the upper half of the table.

Recruitment challenges and new signings

Among Falkirk's summer additions are experienced Scottish Premiership duo Craig Sibbald and Scott Tanser, both of whom started in Saturday's 5-0 Premier Sports Cup win over Edinburgh City. McGlynn expressed satisfaction with the incoming players but noted that the club is still awaiting loan arrivals from England, partly delayed due to World Cup training commitments at parent clubs.

• Falkirk finished sixth in the Scottish Premiership last season, their first top-flight campaign since 2009.
• The club sold top scorers Stewart and Miller to West Brom and Hearts, respectively.
• McGlynn highlighted the need to find 'X-factor' players from English loans to bolster the squad.
• Saturday's 5-0 win over Edinburgh City kicked off their Premier Sports Cup group stage.

McGlynn remains realistic about the season ahead, stating that while Falkirk will be given more respect by opponents, the second season is always the hardest. He emphasized that the team will need to find new ways to compete in the top half, with further reinforcements still expected before the transfer window closes.