Boss Peter Murphy has called on his new-look Annan Athletic squad to enjoy the challenges their Betfred Cup campaign will provide them with, ahead of their opening match.

Murphy’s Black and Golds kick-off their competitive 2019/20 campaign this afternoon (3pm kick-off) against Scottish League One team Dumbarton.

A trip to Dumfriesshire rivals Queen of the South follows next Tuesday, before a home match against Scottish Championship side Morton (July 23) and a trip to take on Scottish Premiership outfit Motherwell (July 27).

"Every team we are playing in the Betfred Cup is from a higher league, one from the Scottish Premiership, two from the Championship and one from League One," said Carlisle United favourite Murphy.

"For the players, it’s a good baptism of fire. It’s something they can enjoy and get into."

At Galabank, manager Murphy will have a much-changed squad at his disposal from the one which reached last season’s promotion play-off final where Annan lost out 2-1 on aggregate to Clyde.

This summer, keeper Alex Mitchell, defender Scott Hooper, midfield men Chris Johnston and Tony Wallace, and Aidan Smith have all departed.

“I offered some of the players improved contracts but, straight away, they said ‘Sorry gaffer, I have been offered double by another club'," Murphy explained.

"Hopefully, we can get into a position as a club where we can move up and, hopefully, keep hold of those types of players."

In response, by and large, Athletic have eyed youth in the close-season, bringing in a number of promising young players, with Euan Griffiths, Jordan Holt, Kyle Wilkie and Niyah Joseph all having joined recently.

Commenting on his move to Galabank, Griffiths told the club website: "I’m delighted to sign for Annan and grateful for the opportunity from the gaffer [Murphy], as I know some managers wouldn’t look at me due to my young age.

"But I’m thankful for the chance here and just looking to do my very best for the club and fans."

Versatile defender Matty Douglas, Lewis McLear, Scott McLean, striker Russell Currie and defender James Ballantyne have also signed for the Galabankies, alongside keepers Lyle Avci and Aaran Taylor.

When asked what kind of test he was expecting his troops to come up against at home to Jim Duffy’s men, who recently brought in PJ Crossan, former Annan loanee Ruaridh Langan, Mati Zata and Rico Quitongo, Murphy said: “They are a very workman-like side.

"They have a good manager, it will be a tough game."