Chairman outlines transfer frustration

The club's patience is starting to bear fruit, with five signings secured and more expected through the door before Saturday's Championship opener against Wolves.

But Mr Stewart said negotiations had been more taxing than usual, partly because of the incorrect perception that Championship clubs have more money to spend.

"What we've seen — and other chairmen have said it across the board — is that a lot of agents are very ambitious with what they're asking for," he said.

"Joe Public knows money is going into the Premier League and agents think that money is going to trickle down.

"It's been very difficult for all clubs to get players in, in fact it's probably been the worst time I've had for being messed about. It's been hard work negotiating and getting the player and many agents out there have been ridiculous.

"The good thing is that our manager Alan Stubbs has been very careful and has taken his time in his selection and I think the fans will see the benefits of us taking our time."

There's more from Mr Stewart in this week's Advertiser, which also includes a 16-page Kick-Off special.