Search starts for new No2 after Binos stalwart moves on
Stirling Albion are looking for a new assistant manager after loyal servant Ross Forsyth’s departure was announced at the end of last week.
The 34 year-old has been awarded a well-deserved testimonial, which is likely to take place next summer, having made his debut way back in July 2005 in a Challenge Cup tie at Ayr.
He was part of the squad that memorably won promotion to the First Division at Airdrie in May 2007 and was also part of the side that came from 15 points back to pip Alloa for the Second Division title on the final day of 2009/10 at Glebe Park.
The former St Johnstone defender had spells at Morton and Dumbarton before returning for a second stint at Forthbank during Greig McDonald’s time in charge, when he scored an equaliser against Rangers and helped the team clinch promotion to League One with victory at East Fife in May 2014 following a superb run of results in the final run-in.
The former skipper even had a couple of games as co-manager, along with Darren Smith, in a caretaker role before Stuart McLaren arrived in the autumn of 2014. He also coached the U20 side to Development League East success in 2015/16 alongside Andy Todd.
He was named assistant when Dave Mackay replaced McLaren in November 2016 and continued to play, although not perhaps as often as he would have liked and injuries didn’t help.
He is now taking time out to do his UEFA A Licence then going on holiday before considering his options for the 2017/18 campaign, while Mackay has said he will take his time to think about a replacement as No 2 and won’t be rushing an appointment.
Forsyth, who was named Supporters Club Player of the Year in 2015/16, said: “After 10 years at Stirling Albion I have decided that the time is right for me to move on and explore new challenges. This decision has been a difficult one, however I believe it is the right one.
“Through my time at the club I have fulfilled a number of roles and there are some great memories that I will hold on to.
“I would like to thank the fans, the chairman and the club board for their support through my highs and lows over my time at the club — they have always been brilliant with me and I have always felt at home with Stirling Albion. I would like to wish the club every success for the future and will be keeping a close eye on future results.”
Forsyth will be missed at Forthbank but is assured of a very warm welcome when he returns for his testimonial match.