Four members of Sons’ U20s squad have signed their first professional contracts with the club, and will now head out on loan for first team experience.
Defenders Jon Dunbar, Brandon Muir and Derin Marshall – who have all featured for the first team – will join goalscorer from Tuesday night Aedan Gilfedder in being awarded first team deals. With all four agreeing loan transfers for their first full taste of senior football.
Right-back Brandon, who caught the eye in the Stirlingshire Cup, will head to Lowland League West side Dalbeattie Star. Left-back Jon, who made his first team bow in our friendly against Linlithgow Rose meanwhile joins West of Scotland Premier League Vale of Clyde.
Left-sided defender Derin, who was named Players’ Player of the Year for our U20s last season after joining from Motherwell, heads to Shotts Bon Accord – also of the West of Scotland Premier League. Whilst flying winger Aedan will play under former Sons wide-man Ryan Borris just across the Clyde at Lowland League West side Renfrew.
Boss Frank McKeown said: “Earning your first professional deal is a special moment in any players’ career and Jon, Brandon, Derin and Aedan have all worked extremely hard to get to this stage. It is also testament to all the magnificent efforts of Jordan Woodford and his coaching staff in preparing the players for their next step.
“All four players will benefit hugely from stepping into a first team environment every week, and I am confident that they will all make an impression at the sides they are joining.
“Myself and the coaching team will be monitoring their progress closely during the season, and we look forward to seeing their development continue, with the ultimate aim of returning to play for our first team.”
Best of luck, lads!