NEILSTON have snapped up the signature Barrhead under-19s Scottish Cup winning forward Thomas McGaughey.

The youngster had been on trial with Andy Whiteford’s side and the Farmer’s Boys boss admitted he had been impressed with what he had seen.

He said: “When I first seen Thomas I knew right away that he was a good player and one I wanted to sign.

“He is a bit like Darren Christie in that he will drop deep to get the ball and is good going forward.

“His confidence shines, he fits the bill even though he is young — but, I’m a firm believer that if you are good enough then you are old enough, age shouldn’t come in to the equation.

“He has done well with Barrhead and I think that this is the next step for him — he is too young to be sitting on the bench somewhere and I think we provide him with a great opportunity to get first team games at this level and give him the opportunity to progress himself, so I am delighted to sign him.” And McGaughey will get the opportunity to come up against his former side when they travel to the Brig O’Lea for the annual Hugh Blair Tournament next month.

Whiteford added:”I think it is appropriate that everyone involved won something last year.

“It is a great chance for the town to come out and celebrate everything that was achieved locally last season. I think we will get a decent crowd along to enjoy the day.

“It tends to be a good occasion so I am really looking forward to it.”