MacLean unable to resist staying in job

Fort William manager Calum MacLean had only intended on making his return to Claggan Park a short-term one, but could not resist the lure of signing on for next season.

MacLean returned for a third stint as Fort boss in January, replacing Russell MacMorran on a deal until the end of the season.

Although he had planned to leave at the end of the season, MacLean was quickly persuaded to remain by Fort chairman Peter Murphy.

MacLean said: “I wasn’t going to do it, but after 10 weeks of sitting inside I’ve thought I’ll do it for another year.

“I had come in until the end of the season, so they could get a bit more time to find a manager.

“I enjoyed it that much, in the games we did get to play.

“You miss it when you’re away from it. I’ll give it another year.

“I was thinking I’m too old for this carry-on of travelling away every second weekend. It’s hard going, it’s a massive commitment.”

Fort were bottom of the table when the Highland League season was stopped due to coronavirus. However the league standings will not be registered.

Prior to MacLean’s arrival the Lochaber outfit had ended a twoyear wait for a victory with a North of Scotland Cup triumph over Nairn County in August, and also took League 2 side Albion Rovers to a Scottish Cup replay following a 1-1 draw at Cliftonhill.

Murphy said: “I’m delighted that Calum has committed himself to Fort William for at least another season.

“Calum, along with Martin Rae, Andy Murray and the coaches have done a fantastic job.”