One of the manager’s signings is local lad, Tommy Goss. Although born in London Tommy has grown up in Dumfries since moving to the town when he was a year old. His one year deal at Palmerston is his first professional deal but he has made his name in the South of Scotland where he was a prolific goal-scorer over two seasons. Playing for Abbey Vale he scored 40 goals in 40 games including scoring four in Vale’s 7 – 0 Challenge Cup win over Upper Annandale.

Tommy isn’t new to Palmerston having been with the club when he was younger and he also spent last season as part of the reserve side. But gaining his first professional gig with his home team is a big thing for him.

“I’m buzzing that the manager has seen something in me and has made the decision to take me on. It is a big step up but I felt alright in the reserve league last season, I didn’t find it any harder playing in that than I did for Abbey Vale”.

“I don’t really see myself as a new boy having been in and around the club with the reserves. I’m not feeling too nervous but I am delighted to be able to now train with the first team”.

Being a goal-scorer there is one player in particular he is looking forward to training and playing with.

“I am thrilled I will be playing along-side Stephen Dobbie. I think I will learn a lot from him, just being around him every day I think I will pick up a lot. With his history and what he has done in the game, it’s amazing and I can’t really believe that I am getting the chance to play with him”.

Tommy is grateful that he has been given a crack at full-time football and is coming to it later than some having spent time working as an apprentice “After four years, I’ve just finished my plasterer apprenticeship. The timing has worked out well for me, I have a trade behind me and I’ve now got a chance in football, it doesn’t happen for many people so I’m really happy”.

Having grown up in the town he is well aware what the club means to the supporters “I know what it means to people in the town, what it means to the fans for the team to win. So I can’t wait to get out scoring goals. I’m excited, my family are excited. It feels like ages since we last kicked a ball. I think with it being my local club it makes it more special that I have been able to sign for my home team. I played for them when I was younger and decided to go elsewhere but I’m delighted that I am back and can’t wait for the first games, to start playing and to start scoring goals”.

Several people have taken to social media to congratulate Tommy on his contract. They include QOS reserve coach, Wullie Gibson who said “I’m delighted that Tommy has been given the chance as he worked terrifically hard and knows where the goal is and he is a great lad too”. Former Club, Abbey Vale added “Everyone at the club are delighted for Tommy, it’s a superb achievement. Now go and show them what you can do”.