Ross County manager Malky Mackay impressed with performances of youngsters on loan at Forres Mechanics
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ROSS County manager Malky Mackay has been impressed with the performances of two youngsters the club have on loan at Forres Mechanics.
Connall Ewan (16) and Ryan MacLeman (18) are on season-long loans with the Can-Cans and have got off to impressive starts in their new surroundings.
The duo – along with Logan Ross, on loan at Lossiemouth – follow in the footsteps of Adam Mackinnon and Matthew Wright, who impressed at Brora Rangers last season and have now moved to Montrose on loan.
Having just turned 16 in June, Connall Ewan has caught Mackay’s eye, and the County boss believes the move to Forres is crucial for the youngster's development.
“I’m so impressed with the maturity of Connall,” he said. “It’s why I decided to put him straight out on loan, because I know he can handle it.
"He has come into first team training and he was one we were looking at whether to bring him in yet or give him another year with the under 18s.
“It has been a great decision, because he immediately got up to speed with men’s training.
"We played Forres and they immediately asked for him, and we wanted him to get as much Highland League action as possible at the start of his journey.
“Ryan went out last year and didn't play much, but he has been with us for a year as the baby of the group.
"He's a year into being around the squad, but he needed to go out and play. He is starting for Forres and he's a lovely talent.
“It’s great grounding for these young ones, who could still be playing under 18s football or development football.
“They are not, they are playing against men. A few weeks ago Connall was up against one of the best players in the Highland League (Garry Wood) and was outstanding.
"It’s terrific experience for them.”
