News /Announcements

Loan Players Overview

By Karen Malcolm

Head of Academy David White explains our use of loans. 

“Ayr United have utilised the academy players loan system for many years, and we feel that it provides a pathway towards first-team football, by giving a ‘career before a career' in a way. Players can experience different environments while being on loan, which helps their awareness of crowds and the highs and lows of football in a competitive environment. 

We are thankful to all the clubs this and previous seasons who have hosted our players.”

Out on Loan

5 of the 6 players who are currently on loan have come through the Ayr United Youth Academy. These 5 players are: Alex Jeanes, Andrew Heaney, Jonny Hogg, James Dolan and Kinlay Bilham. 

Another Academy graduate, Paul Smith, was at Cumnock for the first half of the season but was recalled after his successful loan period.

Alex Jeanes

In August, right-back Alex Jeanes joined West of Scotland League Conference A team Girvan. Alex is a regular in the starting 11 for Girvan and has received several 'Man of the Match' awards during his time there. 

Andrew Heaney

Midfielder Andrew Heaney also joined Girvan on loan in August. Andrew has played regularly since joining Girvan and has scored 3 goals for them. Andrew was voted WOSFL Conference A 'Player of the Month' for December and voted WOSFL Conference A 'Player of the Week'.

Jonny Hogg

In July, full-back Jonny Hogg joined West of Scotland Premier League club Rossvale. Jonny is a regular in the Rossvale starting 11 and has received the Man of the Match award during his time on loan so far.

James Dolan

Midfielder James Dolan also joined Rossvale in August. James is also a regular in the Rossvale starting 11 and has scored 5 goals during his time on loan so far.

Kinlay Bilham

In July, left-back Kinlay Bilham joined West of Scotland Premier League team Irvine Meadow. Kinlay has made several appearances for Irvine Meadow, both in the starting 11 and as a substitute.

Michael Miller

In September, Michael Miller, who can play as in defence or midfield, joined cinch League 2 team Stenhousemuir. Michael was a regular in the starting 11 until he picked up a minor injury. Michael scored in a 2-2 draw with Elgin City on his return to the team. Michael is now back to being a regular in the starting 11.

Nick McAllister 

Nick McAllister, predominantly a right-back but can also play along the backline and in midfield, joined cinch League 1 team Clyde at the end of January 2022.

Recalled from loan 2021-22 Season

Paul Smith

Midfielder Paul Smith joined West of Scotland Premier League team Cumnock Juniors on deadline day; however, Ayr recalled him at the end of December 2021. Paul made his debut for Cumnock the day after signing, coming on as a substitute against Auchinleck Talbot. Paul received the 'Man of the Match' award during his spell at Cumnock and was also voted WOSFL Premier League 'Player of the Week'.