Formartine United manager Kris Hunter hopes Fraserburgh defender Russell McBride will turn down other offers to rejoin him at Pitmedden.
McBride brought his 24-year association with the Broch to an end on Saturday, making his 583rd and final appearance for the Bellslea men in their 3-2 win against Fort William.
The 38-year-old has attracted interest from several Highland League clubs but, having managed McBride for nearly four years before taking the Formartine job last year, Hunter hopes his influence can persuade him to move to North Lodge Park.
Hunter said: “I have spoken to Russell, so we will wait and see what decision he comes to as there are a few other clubs interested. I have played with Russell and been fortunate enough to be his manager. He was captain for me as well, he is a great speaker and great leader. He is a very good player and someone who I feel would benefit us as we have a lot of injuries.
“If he does come in he will not just be making up the numbers, he will play a big part here. Hopefully, he will decide he wants to play for me again. The talks we have had were really positive. I enjoyed working with him for four years, so we will see what transpires in the next couple of days.”
Fraserburgh assistant manager James Duthie paid tribute to the long-serving defender after his emotional send-off at the weekend.
He said: “I spent a bit of time with Russell after the game on Saturday. There are five or six clubs interested in him, so he was going to go away and speak to them before making a decision. Wherever he goes I hope he’s a success. I go back a long way with Russell and he is a cracking lad.
“I hope everything works out for him and he finds something that suits him.”