JOHNSTONE Burgh manager Jamie McKim hopes that new signing Chris Burns can add some Spanish flair to his youthful squad.

Burns first played for the club in the 2018/19 season before taking some time out to study in Valencia but has since re-joined the Keanie Park side for the 2020/21 campaign. 

The talented central midfielder is not the first player to return to the club following a spell abroad.

Earlier in the Summer Ross Geddes also made his way back to the Burgh after living in Australia for 18 months. 

Speaking to Gazette Sport, McKim praised Burns for getting his
fitness in check and challenged the youngster to force his way into the starting line-up. 

He said: “Chris was here when we first came in and we were disappointed to lose him when he went to Valencia. 

“He’s a central midfield player and a very talented player. He’s very creative. Let’s hope he’s brought some of that Spanish flair back with him!

“He was out studying for seven months, I don’t think he played out there, and it was quite hectic with the studies he had. 

“Part-time studying and part-time working is quite intense but he’s got himself back in good nick so it’s down to him now to try and get himself in the team and try and make a difference.” 

McKim has also moved to bring in Jason Andrew who left Arthurlie at the end of the season and the Burgh boss has fond memories of the youngster after seeing him come through the ranks with Barrhead Youth.

He added: “Jason is a solid left-back and we watched him in the Scottish Cup Final a few years ago with Barrhead Youth. 

“He’s really strong and athletic and we’re excited to bring him in.

“He’ll strengthen us on that side of the park.”

Another familiar face to return to Keanie Park is David Collins who turned out for the club on seven occasions last season before going travelling for nine months. 

Following a quarantine period after arriving back in the country, the forward has joined up with his teammates at training.

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