Johnstone Burgh boss Murdo Mackinnon admits Kieran Brophy’s transfer request came as something of a shock.

Brophy was the club's top scorer last season but has now decided his future lies away from Keanie Park.

He had signed a contract for next season before MacKinnon was appointed as manager towards the end of the promotion-winning 2023/24 campaign.

MacKinnon said he was under the impression former Neilston striker Brophy was enjoying his football.

He told Gazette Sport: “It was a bit out of the blue. After we played Broomhill last Tuesday, I got a message from him on the Wednesday asking for a call and he told me he wasn’t enjoying it and he wanted to move on.

“I was really surprised because the information I was getting was contrary to that message.

“I don’t want unhappy players, so he will move on. There have been another few pieces I haven’t been happy with since then but that will remain between Kieran and myself.

“He will move on but it will be on our terms, it won’t be on his terms. He was still going to be available for selection but he is now unavailable.”

Mackinnon has brought in nine new players this summer as he gets his squad ready for Premier Division football.

Burgh will begin their campaign against Largs Thistle on Saturday, July 27, after recording pre-season victories over Maryhill, Irvine Meadow and Rutherglen Glencairn.

Aaron Mason has been the star of the show so far, with eight goals in three games, and Mackinnon insists there is more to come from him.

“I’m pleased with what I have seen so far," he said. "There is still improvements to be made in certain areas of the park but there’s really promising signs.

“Aaron has hit the ground running, with eight goals in three games, and he’ll admit himself he still has a bit to go until he is fully sharp, which is exciting.

“I’m comfortable with where we are. If Kieran goes we will maybe look to bolster in certain areas of the pitch but, apart from that, I’m pretty happy with the squad.”

Burgh round off their pre-season preparations against North Region First Division outfit Longside on Saturday, with a 2pm kick-off at Davidson Park.