STRIKER LIAM QUITS GLENS
Tactical issues sees Gormley exit after 4 years
Liam Gormley revealed that Rutherglen Glencairn are gutted that he’s leaving – but he wants to play regular football.
The 28-year-old has struggled for minutes this season due to Cairn boss Willie Harvey’s tactical set-up.
Due to their affection for Gormley, Rutherglen agreed to release the Kirkmuirhill man and he’s relishing a new challenge.
He said: “My gametime was limited and I wasn’t really getting an opportunity at the start of the season.
“Willie just felt that the formation wasn’t going to suit my attributes. They could appreciate what I bring to the table but it didn’t fit their plans this season and I agreed.
“I’m at the stage of my career where I want to be playing regularly. I lost that buzz for playing throughout the pandemic.
“I’ve been there for four years but it’s time for a change. They were gutted for me to go but they were good enough to let me go.”
Gormley enjoyed an impressive goalscoring record during his time at the Cairn. The prolific striker bagged 37 goals in 83 appearances, of which he only started 42 games.
The former Cambuslang Rangers man had some memorable moments but he selected the West of Scotland Super League First Division title win in 2019 as the highlight.
He added: “I was always aware that I’d grab a goal in most games that I’d play. A lot of my sub appearances were five or ten minutes off the bench so it kind of skews my record.
“It was a split between starts and sub appearances and that was a factor in my decision because you need to be playing as a striker – you can lose your sharpness.
“It was a funny spell because I played loads during some seasons then barely played the next. I feel like I’ve done well over my spell and chipped in with goals. We won the league on the last day and it was a really good year with a great year.
“It’s the season that I started most games and I had my best return so it was a special season.”
Gormley is already speaking to clubs ahead of his next move but he’s determined to pick the right club.
He added: “There’s a few options possibly lined up but I’ll continue to speak to people. The biggest thing for me is having a manager that really wants you.
“That’s a huge attraction rather than going somewhere you aren’t really wanted. If somebody pushes the boat out to get me then I’ll respond by performing better.
“I’m open to whatever is there. You always want to play at the highest level and I’ve slipped down over the years with work because football takes a back seat.”
Willie Harvey is disappointed by Gormley’s decision but he’s nothing but praise for the striker.
He said:“Liam has been exceptional since he joined. He’s been with us for four seasons but game time this season has been few and far between.
“It’s simply because we’ve been playing with one man upfront and that doesn’t really suit Liam’s game.
“He’s not a target man and he needs players around him. He’s a proven goalscorer but we reluctantly agreed to release him.
“We only agreed because he’s been a fantastic servant and he’s never caused us a problem. I’ve nothing but praise for the lad. He’s been brilliant and we are disappointed that he feels that it’s in his best interests to move on.
“We had a good heart to heart chat and we wish him all the very best.
“He was never in a huff because some players sit with their faces tripping them on the bench.
“Liam isn’t silly and he will make sure that he picks the right club. Whoever does sign him will be getting a really good striker.”