Inverurie Locos have seen off interest from Formartine United to sign Jordan Leyden on an extended deal which will keep the 25-year-old midfielder at Harlaw Park until at least the summer of 2020.
Leyden turned down an approach from Locos rivals United to remain at the club where he has scored 22 goals in nearly 100 appearances since arriving from Cove Rangers.
Leyden, who also plays ice hockey for Scottish club Aberdeen Lynx said: “Although I really enjoy my ice hockey, and Aberdeen Lynx are doing well, football is my priority and I only now take to the ice when it fits in with my football.
“When manager Scott Buchan left Locos it was touch and go about my future. I wasn’t sure what was going to happen when a new manager came in, but since the arrival of Neil Cooper I am delighted he wanted me to stay.
“As soon as he told me he wanted me to remain at Locos I was more than happy to sign a three-year extension. I have been really impressed by our new manager and you can see by the arrival of Stuart Duff just where he wants to take the club.
“I have been told Formartine had made an enquiry about me, I hadn’t really spoken properly to them, and I’m really happy to commit myself to Locos. I’ve enjoyed my three years at Harlaw Park and I’m even more excited about the future.”
Locos manager Cooper, is delighted with the deal and said: “Jordan’s commitment to what we’re trying to achieve here is really pleasing. I’ve been delighted with him since my arrival.”
