Veteran winger Graham Carey has voiced profound confidence in Livingston’s capacity to not only survive but truly excel in the challenging Scottish Premiership, asserting the squad possesses both the innate quality and a formidable winning mentality crucial for top-flight success.

Carey’s optimism stems from a deep analysis of the team’s strengths, particularly their proven ability to secure victories consistently, a trait honed over the previous season. This inherent resilience and strategic understanding of how to close out games sets the Lions apart as they embark on their Premiership journey.

Drawing a compelling parallel, the 36-year-old Irish ace highlighted Dundee United’s return to the top flight last season as a benchmark, yet firmly believes Livingston’s current squad composition surpasses that example, signaling even greater potential for the upcoming campaign. This assertion underscores the depth and experience newly integrated into the team.

Carey, a former Celtic youth product, expressed his satisfaction with the team dynamics and overall setup, noting his pleasure in joining the club this season. His eagerness to contribute is palpable as Livingston prepares for their Premiership opener against Kilmarnock, a side they narrowly lost to in a recent League Cup clash.

Reflecting on his past experiences, including stints with St Johnstone, Carey articulated his belief that the current Livingston squad is qualitatively superior to many teams he encountered last year. He emphasized the strategic additions of both quality players and seasoned experience, fortifying the team’s competitive edge.

Acknowledging the inherent difficulties of the Premiership, Carey underscored the team’s awareness of the league’s competitive nature and predicted tight contests. However, he reiterated the collective conviction in their squad’s quality and the unwavering mentality forged through last season’s triumphs, reinforcing their belief in positive outcomes.

The decision to join the West Lothian club after St Johnstone’s relegation to the Championship was significantly influenced by manager David Martindale, according to Carey. The player’s diverse career, which includes playing in England and even with CSKA Sofia in Bulgaria, has equipped him with invaluable experience he now brings to Livingston.