NAMEOFTHEGAME
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Ayr new boy Ben Dempsey checked into Somerset on Monday – and vowed to make an immediate name for himself in Scotland.
The midfielder has moved north from Charlton Athletic on an initial six-month loan deal.
But both parties have an option to make the agreement permanent in the summer, and Dempsey (pictured left) hopes his form will make it an easy decision. He told the Post: “I’m not looking too far ahead and just want to get here and concentrate on my football.
“But I’ve been at Charlton for 14 years now having joined their youth academy when I was only eight.
“So I feel I’m now ready to move at this stage of my career.
“Charlton are a big club who should not be down in League One in England.
“All I’ve ever really known is their way of doing things, so I can’t wait to come here and test myself.”
Dempsey, 22, has been identified by United’s recruitment team as the potential missing link in their midfield engine room.
He added: “I’m confident in my ability and what I can bring to the team.
“It’s an opportunity I want to make the most of.
“I don’t think I have anything to prove to anyone down south. The only person I want to prove things to is myself.”
Dempsey’s arrival has allowed Joe Chalmers to head for the Somerset exit door.
The midfielder had penned a precontract with Dunfermline, but Ayr negotiated to bring the deal forward and received a compensation fee from the Fifers.
Cammy Salkeld is another whose time at United has been cut short following his season-ending ACL injury.
The player is not expected back on a pitch until the end of the year.
But United will support him through his injury, operation and rehab.
Managing director Graeme Mathie told the Post: “We want to be a club that is regarded for doing things the right way and treating players in the right manner.”
Mathie confirmed that Ayr are still “actively looking to do business” in the last week of the transfer window.
●The Ayrshire derby scheduled for Somerset Park on Saturday, March 12 looks likely to move for TV.
Bosses at BBC Scotland are keen on shifting the clash to the Friday night.
●The United Travel Club is on the road to Hamilton this Saturday.
Their bus leaves the Ship Inn at 1pm – prices £10 for adults and £5 for kids.
To book text Jeanne on 07599 289517 or Jamie on 07792 747354.