Dane Ballard and Max Stewart sign new Deveronvale deals as three are transfer listed
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CELEBRATIONS had barely died down after Deveronvale's 10-0 win against Fort William on Saturday when the club announced that two players had signed new deals.
On Sunday, the club confirmed that midfielder Max Stewart had signed a new deal, keeping him at the club until 2024, with striker Dane Ballard also penned a two-year contract extension on Monday.
The bad news for Vale, though, is that captain Ross Aitken, Matthew Wallace and Kyle Willox – all regular starters – have been placed on the transfer list after not accepting new deals.
Despite that news, the capture of Ballard, who is a proven goal scorer at Highland League level, is sure to excite 'Vale supporters.
Manager Craig Stewart said: "Dane is one that wants to be here, do well and score goals.
"He missed 18 months with his injury and he recognises he has lost time to make up for.
"He has a hamstring niggle but came back in on Saturday earlier than expected.
"I'm looking forward to working with him for the next few years."
Banff boy Max Stewart (18) is a product of the Deveronvale youth system and is the nephew of Craig Stewart.
Manager Stewart added: “I’m delighted to get Max on board. He has loads and loads of potential and has really progressed this year. He’s only going to get better.
“He’s a good lad and is committed to the cause. We are looking for boys that want to be at the Vale and Max is one that wants to do well for the club.
“There are several lads who have come through the community club so it’s pleasing to see there is a pathway into the first team. Hopefully this can provide encouragement for others and show that it can and does happen.
“It’s pleasing to get these two signed and hopefully there will be more to follow.”
