Dumbarton welcome Blair Malcolm to club for 2023/24

The 26-year-old signed a one-year contract with the Sons after leaving Albion Rovers following their relegation to the Lowland League.

Malcolm, who can play at left-back or in midfield, became boss Stevie Farrell’s first recruit of the Summer prior to Callum Wilson, Tony Wallace, Carlo Pignatiello and Mark Durnan checking in a couple of days later.

The former Ross County and Alloa Athletic man admits it has been a hard couple of weeks following Rovers’ relegation but has his eyes on the other end of the table for the coming season.

Malcolm can play in various positions across the park (Image: Andy Scott)

He said: “The gaffer had expressed interest and from there it was quite an easy decision.

“The interest came a couple of weeks ago but both myself and the gaffer had important games coming up so I put it to the side and was focusing on the games. It’s been a disappointing couple of weeks at Albion Rovers.

“It’s a well-run club and having played against Dumbarton last season and a couple of seasons before it was a no-brainer really.

“It was always a difficult game against Dumbarton so I’m delighted to be here.

“Dumbarton narrowly missed out in the playoffs so hopefully this coming season we can go one better.

“You want to look back in your career having won league titles or play-offs at the right end of the table.”

Malcolm can play in a variety of roles, with boss Faz impressed with his ambipedal nature and willingness to get stuck in.

He can fill in anywhere across the defence and in the middle of the park and insists that no matter where his gaffer chooses to slot him into his side, he will give his all for the jersey.

He explained: “I’ll give 100% effort every week and get on the ball and break up play and pass it to the guys that can do their magic. I always try and do my bit for the team, wherever I can.

“I’m happy to play anywhere and have even filled in at centre-back but being a deep-lying midfielder is probably my best-suited role.”