THE start of the new season presents a novelty for Craig Brown -- the possibility of a fully-fit squad.

The high number of injuries was partly to blame for last season's disappointments, according to Brown.

"All in all there were 11 cases of surgery last season which was exceptional and didn't help the continuity and consistency of selection."

David Lucas, Richard Cresswell, Andrew Lonergan and Brian O'Neil were all booked in for surgery over the close-season at one point.

Rob Edwards, who missed a chunk of last season, and Michael Keane, who went out on loan after a foot injury, are also well again.

But all have either recovered from the op or escaped it altogether and will be joined by Ricardo Fuller, who has recovered from his knee surgery and jets back in from holiday in Jamaica for the start of pre-season.

Brown added: "Brian O'Neil had a bit of an operation for a ligament and cartilage problem in his knee but he is ok.

"David Lucas was looked at and scanned on his shoulder and he will start training at the start of the season as will Andy Lonergan.

"I am looking forward to some pretty interesting selection dilemmas for the forthcoming pre-season friendlies."

Eddie Lewis has been allowed to report back later than the rest of the team, due to international commitments with the USA, along with Graham Alexander.