Boss John McKeown has vowed to give youth a chance at Shotts this term after being impressed by the youngsters in pre-season.
Under-16 talent Connor Kelly and under-19 star Jack Paton have been given their chance with the first-team as they gear up for their West of Scotland League debut.
McKeown hopes that the pathway will be a real boost for The Bonny this term.
He said: “It’s been great to be back in training and it’s really pleasing to see some of the young boys taking their chance.
“Connor Kelly is one we would like to see do well after he came in from the under-16 team.
“His dad Shugg played in the junior game and did really well so hopefully he can follow in his father’s footsteps.
“Jack was recommended to me by our academy coaches and has done really well since coming up.
“With tighter budgets for clubs this season and it looking like we will have seven substitutes, the academy boys will get their chance and hopefully we can sign boys on dual youth and first-team contacts.”
McKeown’s men face a tough trip to Shettleston in the South Challenge Cup, with the gaffer planning a packed pre-season for his side facing Pollok, Clydebank, Thorniewood and Caledonian Braves.
He is relishing being back in action, adding: “Even when there are training games it’s exciting to have something to watch now. We want to get back to normality and these games will let us know where we stand.”
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