Whyte back for Cans big cup clash
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FORRES Mechanics have persuaded former skipper Neil Whyte to come out of retirement and give them a Scottish Cup boost this weekend.
Whyte called it quits in April after 10 years with the Moray club, citing work and family commitments as his reason to retire from the game.
But the 36-year-old admitted the itch to pull on his boots again was enough for him to make a return to Mosset Park when manager Charlie Rowley got back in touch.
And with Forres preparing for Saturday's big William Hill Scottish Cup clash with junior cracks Irvine Meadow, Rowley could even put Whyte straight back into action against the Ayrshire men.
"I have no qualms about bringing him straight back in if I feel he's the right individual for us on that given day," Charlie said.
"I couldn't think of a better time to announce a great signing like Neil given that we're in such a good position in the league and getting ready for a big cup match."
Whyte signed on Saturday for the rest of the season and watch the team defeat Rothes 3-0 in a Highland League match at Mosset Park.
He recently underwent a toe operation, but has declared himself fit for action if required against Irvine Meadow.
"I couldn't train last week but I hope to be this week, and I'd like to think I would be fit enough to play," Whyte said.
"I've played with a lot worse than this so I don't think it would stop me. I'm not going to take any liberties about being in the squad though, and it's up to the management to say if I'm playing."
Shift work at a local distillery, the building of a new extension on his home and the added demands of a newborn baby daughter all contributed to the former Elgin City player's decision to retire.
But a game of golf with former Mechanics team-mate Gary Youngson, who is currently sidelined with a serious knee injury, gave Whyte the desire to return to playing while he is still able to.
"He's injured and can't play football and he would probably give his right leg to play again, whereas I'm physically fit and able to play. So i thought to myself 'why not'."
Forres are currently second in the Highland League and in good fettle for the match against Irvine Meadow, who were champions of the West of Scotland Superleague Premier Division last season.
For the latest on Forres Mechanics and all the Moray teams in Scottish Cup action this weekend, see Friday's Northern Scot.
