Wick Academy boss aims to ‘fill void’ in midfield after three new signings announced
Wick Academy manager Gary Manson hopes the addition of players from the Orkney Islands can “fill the void” left by departing players.
New signings George Ewing and Callan Jessiman, both from Orkney, were this week announced alongside former Ross County striker Kieran Macgregor after the trio agreed two-year deals with the Harmsworth Park side.
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The arrivals come as the club look to find a replacement for long-serving midfielder Jack Halliday, who has moved to Glasgow.
Conor Farquhar, who joined the side in 2021, has also left the club.
Manson hopes that the addition of the three “young, hungry” players can plug gaps in both midfield and forward positions.
“I’m really happy with the three signings we've made so far”, he said. “It's been a lot quieter this summer than last year as we didn't need too many new additions.
“We needed midfield reinforcements to help fill the void that Jack Halliday left, so I’m really pleased we've done that. Kieran coming in also gives us more competition for places in the final third.
“I am delighted to get Kieran in as he'll offer pace, energy, trickery and goals. He's been with Ross County’s youth teams so he's been coached well and has had a very good season in the amateur summer league, so I’m very much looking forward to seeing how he does at Highland League level now.
“George was part of the squad for the last few games of last season and did very well. He's looked even better during pre season so I can't wait to see how progresses as the season goes on. With his attitude and ability the sky is the limit.
“Callan is a little bit older and more experienced than the other two. He plays with a lot of calmness and the composure you need to play central midfield.
“All three are good ages in that they're young, hungry and full of energy which has been really evident during pre season.
“I'm sure they'll all take a bit of time to settle and get up to speed with the league, as the new boys did last year, but once they do I'm certain they'll prove to be very good additions to the squad.”
17-year-old Macgregor, from Thurso, comes into the squad following the expiration of his contract with Ross County, where he was last a member of the Dingwall club’s under-18 squad.
An energetic young forward, he also played briefly with Halkirk United while on loan from the Staggies last season.
Midfielder Ewing also signs up, having featured for Academy in four league matches towards the end of the 2023-24 season.
The 16-year-old from Holm recently left Ross County and competed last term for the Scorries’ under-18 side, earning the coaches’ player of the year award at the club.
Jessiman, from Stromness, joins the club after five years playing for Orkney in the North Caledonian League, having made 61 appearances, scoring five goals in that time.
The 22-year-old central midfielder has also been playing for his native Stromness Athletic during the summer, competing in the Orkney amateur leagues.