Falkirk will begin the 2026‑27 Premiership campaign without first‑choice goalkeeper Scott Bain and right‑back Keelan Adams, manager John McGlynn confirmed on 7 July. Both players are expected to miss at least the first month, with Adams unlikely to return until September and Bain still recovering from a foot fracture.

What injuries have sidelined the duo?

Bain, 34, suffered a foot problem in April that cost him a place in Scotland’s World Cup squad. A scan on Tuesday revealed a small fracture or chip, meaning he must wear a boot for the next few weeks. McGlynn explained the setback came after Bain had already begun pre‑season training, only for the pain to return.

Adams, 27, required surgery after a scan showed his previous injury had not healed properly. The right‑back missed the tail‑end of last season and was expected to be fit for pre‑season, but the scan forced a decision for an operation, pushing his comeback to September.

Who else is doubtful for the opening match?

New signing Jack McMillan, also a right‑back, arrived from Partick Thistle this summer but remains a doubt for the Premier Sports Cup opener against Edinburgh City on Saturday. McGlynn hinted that McMillan’s fitness is being closely monitored, adding another layer of uncertainty to the back line.

Mid‑fielder Finn Yeats is battling an ankle issue that could limit his involvement in the early weeks. The club has not given a firm timetable, but the medical team is working to get him match‑ready as quickly as possible.

How does this affect Falkirk’s early season outlook?

Losing both the senior goalkeeper and a regular defender forces McGlynn to reshuffle his starting XI. Backup keeper James McCulloch will likely start the first league game, while Ryan McGill may fill in at right‑back alongside McMillan if he proves fit.

The injuries come at a time when Falkirk are aiming to improve on last season’s mid‑table finish. Depth in defense will be tested, and the manager’s ability to adapt could shape the club’s fortunes in the opening fixtures.

What are the next steps for the injured players?

Bain’s recovery plan involves limited weight‑bearing and physiotherapy, with the club hoping the boot will be enough to get him back by mid‑August. Adams will undergo post‑surgery rehab, targeting a return in early September, just in time for the first league matches after the international break.

McGlynn remains optimistic, stating that the squad’s resilience will be key. “We’re hoping it’s only a couple of weeks for Scott,” he said, “but we’ve been hit with a number of setbacks lately.” The manager’s focus now shifts to getting the fit players ready and ensuring the replacements are sharp for the season opener.

Falkirk supporters will be watching the recovery updates closely, aware that early momentum can set the tone for a successful campaign.