Buchanan hails Rovers’ potential as ‘massive’

Liam Buchanan has joked that Raith Rovers have given their promotion chances the perfect boost by signing him – because he is League One’s best player.

Buchanan has been joined by former Alloa team-mate Greig Spence and ex-Motherwell defender Euan Murray in becoming new Rovers manager Barry Smith’s first signings since relegation with John Hughes at the helm last month.

The 32-year-old banged in 27 goals last term to shoot Livingston to promotion back to the Championship this term and earned the division’s PFA Scotland player of the year accolade for his performances.

Buchanan, who had been offered fresh terms to stay with Livi, said: “I see the potential in the club as being massive and the challenge that awaits them next season is something I’ll relish.

“What better way to get out League One than to sign the best player in the division!?

“Seriously, we’re under no illusions how difficult it’s going to be. It’ll be a harder league than it was for Livingston and it’s not going to be easy, but hopefully we can get off to a good start and build from there.”

Buchanan will resurrect a forward pairing he enjoyed at Alloa after former Celtic youngster Spence also made the move to Raith, where he previously spent two seasons.

Buchanan added: “You can’t argue too much with Greig’s goalscoring record and when we were at Alloa before we formed a good partnership.”