Limited to just one full game and a handful of cameo appearances, Callum Moore had had enough of waiting for his chance to come at Dundee.
An offer of another year at Dens Park was on the table but the 21-year-old made the bold decision to leave the club in pursuit of other opportunities.
After a period out of the game, he now finds himself at Forfar Athletic – a club he spent time on loan with last season.
Turning Dundee down
Despite now enjoying his football more than ever, Moore admits the decision to turn down the contract extension was a tough one.
“I got another year with Dundee but I spoke with my agent,” he explained.
“I knew it was going to be hard to break into the team.
“I played only about 10 times for Dundee and there was only about one that was a full game. It was nowhere near enough that I’d have liked.
“We had a real talk about it and thought it was best to try something else and move on.”
Moore had plans to try to earn a deal in England or abroad with a few trials set up but, due to Covid, the foreign dream never materialised.
Joining Forfar
He was then given an opportunity by former Dee Gary Irvine at Forfar, a former coach at Dens Park during Moore’s time there.
“I was training at a few places, trying to get abroad but with Covid, things didn’t work out the way I wanted,” he recalled.
“I had talks with [Gary Irvine] at the start of the season but my intention was to stay full time.
“It was a frustrating six months of no football, but the gaffer gave me a text to ask what I was doing and asked if I would come and train.
“I did that for about two months, then gave me the offer to sign. Now, I’m with Forfar I’m hoping to kick on.”
Moore is now in his second spell at Station Park having been sent on loan to the Loons last season, featuring in 12 games
Although the campaign didn’t end well for Forfar as they we relegated, Moore hopes to enjoy another run in the team. This time as the Athies push to earn back their League One status.
“I’m in a very good place now,” he said. “I’m very happy at Forfar. I’m enjoying football more than I have been for a very long time.
“It’s a great set of boys, they’re very positive.
“We know we can do well in the league. There have been a few bad results lately, but I’m sure well make things right again soon.”
Watching brother Craig
Despite the harsh realities of making a living in football, Moore is a role model to his younger brother Craig.
The 16-year-old recently made history, becoming the youngest ever player to make a competitive start for Dundee United.
Big brother Callum was at Ibrox for the game and spoke of his pride.
“My dad and I were at the game,” he said. “It was very good to watch him, especially under the circumstances. He did very well.
“We talk about football a lot; what to do and how to improve.
“The main thing is; if you’re enjoying your football, you’ll do a lot better. And he’s really enjoying it just now.
“He’s doing well and hopefully he can get back into the squad and get more games.”
Dundee loan report: Who is returning to Dens Park and who might be recalled this month?
