Rose rises to first team

17-year-old striker Grant Rose has signed his first professional contract with the club as he joins Robbie Horn’s first team squad for 2018/19.

Rose, who signed for the Under 20s last summer from Hutchison Vale, is the latest in a long line of players to make the step up from the development squad, earning his place after netting ten times in 18 SPFL Development League East games throughout 2017/18. The youngster also scored four goals whilst on loan at Lowland League side Gala Fairydean Rovers.

Manager Robbie Horn and his team have been impressed with what they’ve seen of Rose throughout the last season. “Grant Rose is a player that has impressed the coaching staff over the past season with his performances for the development team. He’s a good size, strong, has good awareness and can score goals. He’s a young Borders boy, still only 17 but is a determined character and keen to progress. He’s very much deserving of the opportunity to step up to the first team and has earned his first pro contract.”

Under 20s coach Daniel McKenzie is proud to see another player progressing through the ranks at Shielfield: “I’m absolutely delighted that another of our Under 20 squad has stepped up to the first team squad for the forthcoming season. Grant has really earned his new contract and I know he’s ready to kick on and really push to establish himself in the squad. It further shows the opportunities that we can offer young players at this club and I’m delighted that we have a manager in Robbie Horn who embraces youth.”