Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
Why Moore said no to Dens stay
LIMITED to just one full game and a handful of cameo appearances, Callum Moore had had enough of waiting for his chance to come at Dundee.
An offer of another year at Dens Park was on the table but the 21-year-old made the bold decision to leave the club in pursuit of other opportunities.
After a period out of the game, he now finds himself at Forfar Athletic – a club he spent time on loan with last season.
Despite now enjoying his football more than ever, Moore admits the decision to turn down the contract extension was a tough one.
“I got another year with Dundee but I spoke with my agent,” he explained.
“I knew it was going to be hard to break into the team.
“I played only about 10 times for Dundee and there was only about one that was a full game. It was nowhere near enough that I’d have liked.
“We had a real talk about it and thought it was best to try something else and move on.”
Moore had plans to try to earn a deal in England or abroad with a few trials set up but, due to Covid, the dream never materialised.
He was given an opportunity by former Dee Gary Irvine at Forfar, a former coach at Dens Park during Moore’s time there.
He said: “It was a frustrating six months of no football, but the gaffer gave me a text to ask what I was doing and asked if I would come and train.
“I did that for about two months, then gave me the offer to sign. Now, I’m with Forfar I’m hoping to kick on.”
Despite the harsh realities of making a living in football,
Moore is a role model to his younger brother Craig.
The 16-year-old recently made history, becoming the youngest ever player to make a competitive start for Dundee United.
Big brother Callum was at Ibrox for the game and spoke of his pride.
“My dad and I were at the game,” he said. “It was very good to watch him, especially under the circumstances. He did very well.
“We talk about football a lot; what to do and how to improve.
“The main thing is; if you’re enjoying your football, you’ll do a lot better. And he’s really enjoying it just now.
“He’s doing well and hopefully get back into the squad.”