Queen of the South Press Release
As we bring the curtain down on another season, plans are well underway for the next campaign.
As the manager reshapes his squad for season 2017/18, several players will be leaving the club. Goal-keeper, Jim Atkinson, as well as defenders, Jamie Hamill, Chris Higgins , Andy Dowie and Scott Hooper are departing along with strikers, Dale Hilson and Steven Rigg who have spent much of the season sidelined with injury. Youngsters, Owen Moxon, Dean Brotherston and Aidan Smith who have all been out on loan will not have their contracts renewed. Members of the Under 20 squad who are also being released are Richard Murray, Ayrton Sonkur, Jay McInally, Shane Glean, Cameron Copeland and Sam Henderson.
Manager Gary Naysmith wishes to thank each and everyone of the players who are moving on for their efforts “It’s the hardest part of being a manager. It’s really not nice having to tell players that there is nothing for them. It’s been tough but we have to make plans for the future of Queen of the South”.
“It’s sad for players like Chris and Andy who have spent several years of their careers at the club and have been very professional both on and off the park. Chris had been club captain over a long period of time and carried out his role admirably. He was also a good ambassador for the club off the pitch as well. Andy also filled the captain’s role on numerous occasions and I wish both players, and all the others players that are leaving us, all the very best for the future”.
The manager also thanked both Motherwell and Celtic for allowing Dom Thomas, Joe Thomson and Connor McManus to join on loan. All three have now returned to their parent clubs.
Meanwhile, Darren Brownlie has put pen to paper on a new contract and Callum Tapping, Ross Ferguson, Connor Murray, Jack Leighfield, Owen Bell and Jesse Akubuine have all agreed contract extensions.
They join Derek Lyle, Lee Robinson, John Rankin, Stephen Dobbie, Scott Mercer, Jordan Marshall, Kyle Jacobs and Lyndon Dykes in committing their futures to the club for next seasons campaign.
Dan Carmichael has been offered a new deal.
And midfielder, Andy Stirling has signed a pre-contract and joins from Dumbarton.
