‘Gers complete double loan swoop

Berwick Rangers are delighted to confirm the additions of 17 year-olds Sean Mackie and Ben Stirling, who join the club in loan deals which will intially last until the January transfer window from Hibernian.

Ben has been a regular in Scotland youth squads throughout his career

As part of the deal, both players will also be able to feature for Hibernian’s development team, mirroring the terms of the clubs’ agreement on former loanees Callum Crane and Jordan McGregor who were with the ‘Gers last season.

The pair had previously appeared in Berwick’s pre-season clashes with Consett AFC and Ryton & Crawcrook Albion, however the could not announce the signing until the completion of the relevant paperwork.

Both Sean and Ben missed out on the opportunity to play against their parent club on Tuesday having picked up knocks over the weekend.

Sean is a highly rated prospect who emerged on the scene with some impressive performances for Raith Rovers Under 20’s side last season. His form earned him not only a place on the bench of the first-team at Starks Park, but also the interest of numerous other clubs. Sean, who can play anywhere on the left flank would choose Hibernian, citing their record for bringing through youth as a key factor in his decision.

Ben meanwhile is a midfielder who, similar to another former Hibees loanee Steven Notman, can also be deployed iat right back, and he brings with him international experience having enjoyed call-ups to Scotland’s Under 17 squad.

Berwick have had great success in developing Hibernian youth players in recent years, with former loanees Jordon Forster and Danny Handling both current first-team members. Elsewhere, the aforementioned McGregor has recently completed a move to Hamilton Academical, whilst young left-back Crane hopes to break through at Easter Road this season after an impressive spell at Shielfield in 15/16.