Buckie Thistle manager Graeme Stewart reckons new signing Kevin Main is Highland League's best keeper
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BUCKIE Thistle manager Graeme Stewart believes he has signed the Highland League’s best goalkeeper in Kevin Main.
Main (39) has re-joined his hometown club from Formartine United on a two-year-deal and will battle for the number one spot with youngster Lee Herbert.
Main’s arrival also covers the departure of Daniel Bell, who is set to leave at the end of his contract.
Despite the competition, Herbert is still viewed as the future by manager Stewart.
He said: “I’m absolutely delighted to get Kevin in – but I want to make clear that we see Lee as the long-term number one.
“It can only help his development to train alongside Kevin, who has won the Highland League and played 600-odd games.
“It was also crucial we got someone in with Daniel Bell moving on to play juniors because he is working offshore.
“We have signed one of the top three keepers in the league. In my opinion, the best.
“Kevin isn’t coming here to wind down at his hometown club – this is a step up from Formartine and we will be competing for trophies.”
Seven years after leaving Buckie, Main is more than happy to have returned.
He said: “I’m delighted to be back and can’t wait to get going.
“It was a no-brainer for myself, especially with training two nights a week in Buckie.
“To be honest, I was looking at retiring this summer but I’m planning on playing a year here and reviewing it next summer.
“I’m coming back to help Lee too and pass on a bit of experience.
“I want to play but if Lee gets in and plays well then that benefits the club.
“It’s a good, young squad, and I want to come and win trophies. I’ve won trophies everywhere I’ve played and this is a team hungry to win as much as possible.”