Trouten aims to help kids step up

Alan Trouten has vowed to help Albion Rovers youngsters make the stepup to first team football next season.

The former Brechin City midfielder joined the ranks at Cliftonhill last week, and is keen to make a difference both on and off the park.

The 31- year- old arrives in Coatbridge with bags of experience in League One and after a Championship play-off final win last year.

The winger bought into boss Brian Kerr’s plans for the future as he hopes to give young players their chance.

He told the Advertiser: “It can be a big step-up for young players.

“Brian was telling me a lot about the great young players he was coaching last season in the under-20s and he thought I could add to the players already here. You go from playing behind closed doors at top-class facilities to playing against experienced professionals, fighting for that win bonus, on a difficult park.

“I hope that if there is anything I can pass on to them, I will.”

Trouten is feeling a real buzz around the Excel Group Stadium and can’t wait to play his first game for the club.

“Brian told me about a couple of players he was looking to bring in, and some of them have already come through. That’s when I thought it was the right club for me.

“Hopefully next season we can play some good football that the fans will be able to enjoy.”

Assistant manager Stuart Malcolm added: “Alan will bring us proven quality at this level.

“We are delighted to get him.”

Old hand Alan Trouten