Dylan McGeouch made an stunning impact on his Forest Green Rovers debut - just hours after his signing was announced.
The former Hibs and Celtic midfielder has signed with the English League One side until the end of the season after being without a team since his Aberdeen departure at the end of last season. He's spent time training with David Martindale at Livingston in a bid to keep his match sharpness and fitness at a high level while he looked to land a new club.
That has clearly helped the former Easter Road favourite after he went straight into the starting side for the Papa Johns Trophy clash with Cheltenham Town after just one training session with his new side. He played for an hour before he was replaced with his new club losing out on penalties after a 1-1 draw. They currently sit bottom of England's third tier but it is FA Cup action next up with a clash against Alvechurch on Saturday. McGeouch has previously played at the same level in England during his time at Sunderland.
READ MORE: Graham Arnold opens up on 'cruel' Martin Boyle World Cup blow with Hibs star ruled out for Australia
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Reacting to his debut, boss Ian Burchnall said: "I thought he [Dylan] was excellent. He rightly got man of the match.
"He came straight in based on really one training session. I know there was a few disgruntled fans when I subbed him off but I tried to remind them that the last time he played 90 minutes was over a year ago and he's not been playing since the summer.
"To risk him through 90 today would be quite foolish. We had to get him off at 60. It was pre-planned. It wasn't ideal as he was playing well but I didn't want to take a risk with him more than we need to, especially with what has been going on so far, so he will freshen up and get ready for the weekend now.
"He's got great experience, played at some big clubs and played in this league before. I think he communicates well, sits in the midfield and organises. That is something that will gives us a little balance and experience in there and will be key going forward."
On his move to the club, the 29-year-old added:“I’m really happy to join FGR and I’m excited to get going. Hopefully I can help the team win more games and climb the League One table.”
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