Yahoo News Queen of the South signing spree continues as new goalie and striker arrive
Queen of the South have continued their summer signing spree by strengthening at both ends of the park.
Goalie Ross Stewart penned a one year deal on Monday, sealing a return to Palmerston after a loan spell with Queens in 2020.
And two days later he was joined by forward Leighton McIntosh, who bagged six goals for Championship outfit Arbroath last season.
They are the latest recruits to new boss Peter Murphy’s squad, joining Matty Douglas, Reece Lyon, Brennan Dickenson and Benji Luissint in making the move to Dumfries.
Murphy said: Ross has an excellent background in football, with a wealth of experience playing and training alongside some exceptional goalkeepers.
“Now is Ross’ time to claim that number one spot. At 29 years old Ross brings much needed experience to our squad after last season.
“Leighton has shown a great desire to be on board with what we trying to achieve and brings that much needed experience to the team. Leighton is an natural athlete who can lead the line or play in the wide areas so gives us the opportunity to adapt in games where needed.
“Having some of our younger players in the squad Leighton can lead by example and show players what is needed to succeed. With the recent additions in the squad we have managed to bring in some excellent characters to bring us all together and push for success.”
Keeper Stewart has represented Scotland at youth level and came through the ranks at Motherwell before joining Albion Rovers in 2015.
After two years there, he made the switch to St Mirren – coincidentally the same summer his Rovers team-mate, also called Ross Stewart, made the same move.
He has since gone on to have spells with Livingston and Hearts, as well as a loan stint at Queens in 2000 – making nine appearances before the coronavirus pandemic curtailed the season.
The 29-year-old spent the second half of last season with Partick Thistle.
He said: “I am delighted to be back – following conversations with both the manager and Jon the goalkeeping coach it was clear this was a fantastic opportunity.
“My brief spell at the club last time allowed me to see what the club was all about and I am excited to get started again in pre-season.”
McIntosh started his career in Dundee and has since played for teams in Scotland, England and Wales.
The 31-year-old was with Arbroath last season, having spent the previous three years with Cove Rangers.
He said: “I am delighted to join Queens and looking forward to what will hopefully be a successful campaign. I’m confident I can produce on the pitch this coming season and after speaking to the manager I am excited to get started.”
While Stewart and McIntosh have arrived at Palmerston, heading through the exit door is Craig McGuffie.
Queens have also revealed plans to combine training in Hamilton with regular sessions in Dumfries, which will include an open pre-season training session to let fans see the players in action.
