Arbroath to keep part-time squad if promoted to 2026 Premiership

Arbroath will maintain part-time players if promoted while exploring a hybrid model with more full-time signings.

Play-off progress update Arbroath continues their push for a Premiership spot with a home game against Dunfermline Athletic on Friday, after losing 1-0 in the first leg of their Championship play-off quarter-final. The Angus club remains in contention to secure back-to-back promotions, facing Partick Thistle in the semi-final next week if they advance. The eventual winner will then meet the second-bottom Premiership team in the final. ## Gold outlines squad vision Co-manager David Gold has confirmed that Arbroath would continue using part-time players if they earn promotion to the top flight. He suggested a hybrid approach, blending existing part-time stars with a few additional full-time or loan players, would be the most practical path forward. Gold emphasized that financial stability would reach unprecedented levels for the club if promotion is achieved. He also highlighted the importance of rewarding current players who have guided the side this far while exploring ways to attract stronger talent. ## Captain's loyalty stays strong David Gold reflected on the club’s bond with veteran player Tam O’Brien, the team captain and a nine-year teammate. At 34, O’Brien maintains a full-time job outside football, and Gold confirmed he would not switch to professional status despite his age. The manager stressed that Arbroath would never dismiss players simply for not fitting a new model, calling such an approach unfair and against the club’s values. He described the club’s unity as a core principle that would not be compromised. ## Season of unexpected success Arbroath has surpassed expectations this season after finishing third in the Championship, having already claimed the League 1 title earlier in their campaign. Four years ago, Gold and his co-manager Colin Hamilton were teammates under Dick Campbell during a tight race for the second-tier championship. The current side’s achievements have gone largely unnoticed, though Gold recalled the widespread attention when they matched that feat in 2021-22. He believes their progress deserves far greater recognition, calling the potential promotion a transformative moment for the club. ## Play-off current standings Dunfermline Athletic currently holds a narrow one-goal lead over Arbroath after the first leg of their quarter-final play-off clash at East End Park. The tie remains finely balanced as both teams prepare for the second leg at Gayfield Park.