Keatings signs deal to join Raith in summer

Raith Rovers have completed the precontract capture of James Keatings as manager John Mcglynn continues planning ahead to next season.

The Kirkcaldy club have already sealed a deal that will see former Rangers and Dunfermline defender Tom Lang join in the summer.

And Mcglynn is thrilled to have now lined up Inverness striker Keatings, who has committed himself to a two-year agreement at Stark’s Park.

The Rovers boss said: “We are delighted to have secured James’ services, and look forward to working with him over the next two seasons.”

Keatings has scored two of his four goals this term against Raith – and an incredible 13 of his 64 career goals have come against his future club.

Having earned Hamilton, Hearts and Hibs promotion to the Premiership, Rovers will be hoping he proves their lucky charm, if they fail to seal a return to the Premiership this season.

The 29-year-old is another piece of the jigsaw for the Stark’s Park outfit, who have also agreed new deals with Robbie Thomson, Dave Mckay, Dylan Tait and Ross Matthews in recent weeks.

But, with likes of Regan Hendry, Brad Spencer, Dan Armstrong, Frankie Musonda and Manny Duku all out of contract in the summer, Mcglynn recognises he has lots of negotiations ahead.

Mcglynn added: “It’s an ongoing process, it’s as simple as that.

“We’re continuously evaluating our players and talking to them, and at the same time recognising that we have to look outside the squad to bring in other players.

“In my time at Raith Rovers Football Club, we have never had as strong a squad as we do right now.

“And I’ve never been so far ahead to the following season as I am right now.

“I’m really enjoying the process. It’s hard work right now but if we put in the hard work now then it’ll maybe be a wee bit lighter work in the summer.”

James Keatings has agreed pre-contract with Raith.