Amateur given chance to shine with Hegarty’s Gable Endies

Montrose boss Paul Hegarty has snapped up Ryan Kenneth – from Dundee Amateur side St James.

The youngster was watched by Gable Endies assistant manager John Holt a few times at the end of last season and made a big impression.

Now, Hegarty has given Kenneth a one-year deal and the chance to prove he can make the step up from the Midlands Premier Division to senior football level.

The manager said: “John saw a few St James games towards the end of last season and liked what he saw of Ryan.

“He is versatile and can play left-back or wide left and has a good engine on him.

“I haven’t seen him play but I trust John’s judgment and we have decided to give Ryan an opportunity at senior level.

“This maybe sends out a message to people to look at the bigger picture and other leagues.

“For instance, when Craig Levein was at Dundee United he took a chance snapping up Morgaro Gomis from Cowdenbeath. Morgaro was great for United, went down south and is now playing at Hearts.

“I’m not saying Ryan is another Gomis but as coaches we will help him as much as possible to make the step up.

“He is keen as mustard and chuffed to bits about joining us.

“Only time will tell whether he is a success but he will give it a real go.”

Paul Hegarty has signed amateur player Ryan Kenneth.