Greg Fleming joined Gretna after leaving Livingston in 2005

Caig will not arrive from Vancouver Whitecaps until January, leaving the Scottish Premier League newcomers relying on 20-year-old Fleming.

And Irons explained: "He is a young keeper and has done well for us, but we are looking at Tony Caig.

"We need to protect Greg and also give him competition in that position."

Gretna have lost eight goals in their first two games in the SPL.

And Irons is hoping that his latest signing will help plug the gaps in defence.

Aurelien Collin is set to make his debut against Hearts on Saturday after the 21-year-old completed his move from Real Mallorca.

"We obviously have to look at our defence after losing eight goals," said Irons.