Raith hope Hearts bond can continue

By BARRY ANDERSON
Published on Friday 13 July 2012 11:57

HEARTS and Raith Rovers intend to continue their close relationship following John McGlynn’s move from Stark’s Park to Tynecastle, with the possibility of further loan deals between the clubs to help ?youth players gain first-team experience.

Grant Murray, McGlynn’s ?replacement at Raith, explained today that the new Hearts ?manager has already offered to help his former club in any way possible. Raith have benefited from several loan signings of young Tynecastle prospects in the recent past and also used facilities at Hearts’ Riccarton training ground. Murray is keen to continue the trend.

“Both clubs have helped each other out,” he said. “Even last season, we had Jamie Walker, Denis Prychynenko, David Smith, Jason Holt, Johnny Stewart, Jason Thomson and Danny Thomson all on loan. It’s been a great link between the clubs. It’s really helped us out and long may it continue.

“When John left, he spoke to myself and Laurie Ellis and told us that, if there’s anything we need, he would only be on the other end of the phone. First and foremost, John has his own job to take care of. But if the time arrives where we are looking for players then I’m sure he would help us out if he can. If he can’t then I’m sure he’d be honest enough to say so.”

Ahead of tomorrow’s friendly between the clubs at Stark’s Park in a testimonial for Ellis, McGlynn praised the defender. “Laurie has an affinity for Raith and he is very worthy of this testimonial. I don’t want to steal Laurie’s day. He’s earned that, he is very worthy of it. It’s nice for myself to go back so quickly. When I was at Raith I helped to organise this game so it’s good to be part of it.”

Taken from the Scotsman