Forres Mechanics stopper Simon Allan thrilled to be coached by former Highland League title-winning team-mate Nathan Sharp next season
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
NATHAN Sharp’s return to Forres Mechanics as assistant boss is a huge positive step, says defender Simon Allan.
Sharp was Cans centre back alongside full-back Allan when the Mosset Park side upset the odds to clinch the Highland League title nine years ago.
Now Allan will be put through his paces by his former team-mate on the training ground instead of working alongside him on the park.
“I played along side Nathan for eight or nine years,” said Allan. “It was myself, Nathan, Grapies (Graeme Grant) and Graham (Fraser) at the back for most of the title season, and we had a great understanding.
“I’m delighted he’s come back as coach. He doesn’t necessarily say too much but when he does speak, it’s a lot of sense and people listen to him and take stock.
“He’s a great addition to the coaching staff so we’re delighted to see him back. I’ve got a lot of respect for Nathan and what he did at the club, as a person he’s really good to have around.
“Hopefully for some of the younger players coming through, Nathan’s experience can help.”
Allan’s decision to sign a new one-year deal and play on past his 36th birthday gives Mechanics bags of experience in their squad.
He is looking forward to using his influence to help some of those younger players, including fellow defender Ruari Fraser who completed a move from Formartine United.
“Ruari is a brilliant signing for us. When he came on loan from Ross County he made the effort to fit in and he fitted in perfectly.
“His dad Derek played for Mechanics years ago.”
Mechanics have completed the loan signing of Elgin City striker Owen Loveland, who will spend the season at Mosset Park.
Dale Wood and Owen Paterson have signed two-year deals while Joe Gauld has put pen to paper on a fresh one-year contract.
