Former Rangers midfielder Jamie Barjonas raised eyebrows when he signed for Lowland League new boys Kelty Hearts – but the former Scotland under-21 international has admitted the chance to work with ex-Ibrox coach Kevin Thomson convinced him his future lay with the ambitious Fifers.
Barjonas ended his long association with Rangers when he departed this summer at the end of his contract, quickly signing a one-year deal at New Central Park to link up once more with Thomson.
After working under Thomson as part of the Academy at Rangers, Barjonas admitted that he’s never enjoyed his football more than when he was playing under former Rangers and Hibs midfielder Thomson.
“I actually texted Kev to congratulate him on the job and we just got into a conversation about a few things – he told me that he would love to have me here,” Barjonas told The Courier.
“When you have someone who you’ve played under before, knows you and values you — that’s all you want.”
“I know the gaffer well from Rangers and I get on really well with Kev. I’ve never enjoyed my football more than when I was playing under Kevin Thomson. He’s a great manager, has real ambition and he knows what he wants.”
Bold move from Thomson walking away from historic Rangers campaign
Thomson’s decision to leave Rangers wasn’t quite as surprising as Barjonas’ one to join Kelty but Gers fans were sad to see the popular coach leave Ibrox to take up his first role in management.
With the Gers’ B team entering the Lowland League this season, Thomson has taken a big gamble – but one that will hopefully pay off for him.
Barjonas will be a key player for Kelty this season as they look to consolidate their place in the SPFL, and it will be interesting to see just how he performs at that level.
Loan spells Bury, Raith Rovers, Partick Thistle and Ayr United have produced varying results for Barjonas and the move to Kelty is every bit as much of a gamble as Thomson’s move to the Fifers.
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