Aiden Marsh has left the door open for a return to Scottish football after hailing his ‘life-changing’ loan spell at Raith Rovers.
The 22-year-old spent the second half of the season with the Kirkcaldy club and scored three times in 17 appearances.
The striker returned to parent club Barnsley at the end of the Championship campaign and has since been told he is no longer wanted by his boyhood club.
It leaves the popular Yorkshireman contemplating the crucial next step in his career – and where Scottish football could fit into that.
“I’ve learned so much during these three months or so that I’m going to take with me for the rest of my life, especially off the field,” Marsh said speaking to Courier Sport.
“I’ve learned all sorts of life skills – cooking, cleaning, you name it, I’ve had a go at it. It’s been really good and I’ve really enjoyed living up in Scotland.
“It’s been an amazing experience. I’m just glad I got out there and I went for it, to be honest. It’s been really positive as a whole.
“It’s probably one of the best decisions I’ve made, to get myself out on loan and get up there.”
Moving midway through a season is never easy and, despite making a significant impact at Raith, Marsh made just two starts, and just one in the league.
Marsh: ‘I loved my time’ at Raith
Despite that, he became something of a fans’ favourite with his energetic displays, key goals and his positive off-field manner.
And, as he decides on his next move, the former Scunthorpe and York City loanee admits he would be keen on a return to Scotland.
“I’m just going to keep myself in the best shape possible and see what opportunities arise,” he added.
“I’m definitely not against coming back up to Scotland. Like I say, I’ve loved my time up there. It’s been mint.
“I’m just keeping my options open and seeing what comes of it, really. I’m trying to make the right move for me next because my next step is a pretty important one.
“I’ve just turned 22. So, I’m at that stage where I want to be playing first-team football as much as I can.
“That’s the main thing. I just want to go and play because I believe in my ability.
“Scottish football sort of fits me perfectly, to be honest. I want to get in behind, I want to get in people’s faces and come alive in and around the box.
“That’s where I want to play my football, in those types of areas. The Scottish game seems to suit that.
“Like I say, I’m just hoping to take the next step in my future and career. And hopefully make the right one.”
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