Stewart Petrie has thanked the Montrose board for smashing the club’s transfer record to sign Kane Hester.
Hester joined Montrose last week for a fee believed to be around £25,000 – eclipsing a the £17,000 the Angus side paid for Jim Smith in 1992.
Petrie’s move for Hester came after the prolific striker netted 84 goals in 160 games for Elgin City, including 29 last term.
And as Petrie sets about refreshing his squad he hopes Hester can make an instant impact.
“There was a lot of interest in Kane from elsewhere,” said the Montrose boss.
“I’m not surprised at that given his goalscoring record over the last few years.
“The board have been outstanding on this one and it’s a transfer that shows our intent.
“Not a lot of clubs are paying money for players at our level.
“The fact our board were willing to do so says a lot about the backing they have given.
“We were looking to give the squad a bit of a refresh and Kane can play a big part in that.
“He has obvious quality in front of goal but the biggest thing for me is he really wants to play for this club.
“He’s a local lad and his mum and dad still live in the town so we’re confident he can settle quickly.”
Stewart Petrie excited for Kane Hester-Rory McAllister partnership
Hester will partner veteran striker Rory McAllister up front next term as Montrose seek to fire up their play-off bid.
Petrie’s first goal is to ensure Montrose consolidate their position in League One for a sixth season.
But should Hester and McAllister strike up lethal two-pronged attack, they could be good bets for the play-offs.
“Kane will be a massive addition to our squad,” added Petrie.
“On paper at least, it gives us a pairing that looks really exciting.
“He’s a different sort of player to Rory but both have a fine goalscoring record.
“Rory has scored over 300 career goals. That’s just ridiculous.
“He showed last year he does a lot of work in other areas of the pitch too.
“He had to work hard because we were often playing with one striker due to injury or illness.
Most clubs that have success have prolific strike partnerships.”
“But Kane will give him some support.
“I’ve already spoken to Rory about Kane and he’s excited. He’s got his appetite back for next season already.
“Most clubs that have success have prolific strike partnerships.
“Cove had Rory and Mitch Megginson when they won the league. Airdrie had Calum Gallagher and Callum Smith.
“They dovetailed each other and we’re all striving for a partnership that gets in excess of 20 goals a season.
“Our targets are the same as always. Let’s ensure we are eighth and build from there.”
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