The youngsters were treated to a training session from the former Scotland under-21 international — and all appreciated his support to the new club.

The Wasps currently have a 2005 team playing on a Saturday, and two 2006 sides which play on a Sunday.

Mark Duncan, 2005 coach, was delighted to welcome Whiteford to training — he said: “The main aim of our connection with Neilston Juniors is to strengthen the links with the local community — and ultimately we will hopefully get local children involved and interested in sport.

“Particularly we want kids to get interested in football — and one day some of them may even turn out for Andy’s first-team.” The side enjoy an affiliation with the junior ranks which have enjoyed considerable success over the past 12 months.

Whiteford’s side won promotion to the Superleague First Division last season — and a thriving youth section is something the club are hoping to press on with.

However, with minimal facilities in the village for the sports, the Wasps have to train at nearby St Lukes High School in Barrhead.

Kenny Wilson, 2006 coach, explained: “The club is still growing and learning — but results have been very encouraging.

“The new astro-turf facility at St Lukes High School is providing a great base for the kids to train on twice a week.” The plight of Neilston Wasps is something that Whiteford views very highly. Hailing from the village himself, an established club in the area is an issue he considers to be of huge importance to kids and budding footballers.

He added: “As someone from the village who played youth football in Neilston, I am delighted to have the young Wasps on board.

“This side should give the same chance to the current generation of Neilston’s young footballers.”