Shotts on signing spree
New Shotts Bon Accord manager John McKeown has been busy adding to his squad ahead of next season.
The gaffer has moved quickly to bolster his new side, bringing in a host of players as he looks to make his mark on the side that finished ninth last season.
Central midfielder Adam Hunter, who has turned out previously Ayr United and Cumnock Juniors having formerly been on the youth books at Rangers, has joined the squad, while winger Scott McKean has been signed from fellow West Region League One side East Kilbride Thistle.
Goalkeeper Derek Barns is also joining the Shotts revolution after leaving Cambuslang Rangers for Hannah Park, as has striker Jordan Love.
Left-back Jordan Halsman will link up to provide competition for places while Craig Crawford and Gerry Watt have both made the switch from Wishaw Juniors.
McKeown told the Press he is surprised at how quickly the club have been able to strengthen the side, and is looking forward to shaping the team when pre-season training kicks off tonight (Wednesday).
“I’m surprised we’ve been able to get so many in so quickly,”he said.
“It’s a big turnaround and we’ve got to hope everything gels quite quickly.
“A lot of the boys have worked together at various clubs though and I’ve worked with a couple of the lads at Wishaw and Cambuslang before so I’m hopeful they’ll fit together and hit the ground running.”
McKeown said the club aren’t done yet with their transfer business, and he expects another two or three to join this week.
He added:“It’s brilliant to have a good, competitive squad in place for the whole of pre-season.
“We’ve kept six or seven on from last season who impressed and the boys I’ve brought in I know and trust from working with them before.”
Resigning for next season are Johnny Murdoch, Danny Burns, Ally Martin, Dean Sutherland, Stevie Aitken, Ryan Kennedy and Andy Cross.
Moving on from the club’s squad last season are Ryan Sullivan, Scott Crone, Stephen Maguire, Scott McHaffie, Glen Eadie and Ross Foley.
Shotts first pre-season friendly is an away trip to face Vale of Leven on July 14.