Permanent signing of versatile teen fullback is ‘great business’ for Strathspey Thistle
The permanent signing of defender Filip Franczak has been described as a great piece of business by Jags boss Ryan Esson.
Fullback Filip Franczak - who can play either side as well as in central midfield - has been secured for a further 18 months at Seafield Park.
The 18-year-old joined from Forfar Athletic on loan earlier this season and has impressed in his short time with Thistle.
He has signed with the club until the end of the 2025/26 season.
Esson said that the youngster has brought strength to both his side’s defence and midfield.
The teenager’s development and experience - from his time at St Johnstone - had proved invaluable as the Jags look to continue to improve.
Esson said that Franczak has put in some standout performances since his arrival and he is now a key player in the squad.
Head coach Ryan Esson commented: “Filip has done really well since coming in and he has played in a wide variety of positions for us.
“He is exactly the type of player we are looking for - someone who is versatile but when asked to play in their main position can do their job to a very good standard.
“He has done that.
“We recognise that Filip is still a young boy and he has some weaknesses that we need to work on to help him improve further as a footballer.
“His ability, work ethic, and positive attitude will continue to play a major role as we build for the future.”
Also tied down until the end of the season is keeper Euan Storey who has extended his loan from Buckie Thistle.
He has cemented his place as number one and has been another key addition to the Grantown side.
Esson told the Strathy: “This is another deal that we are delighted to have completed.
“Euan has done alright since coming in but we recognise there is loads of room for us to improve him as a player.”
However, contrary to what many on-lookers may think, former Inverness Caley and Aberdeen stopper Esson is not hands on when it comes to coaching the club’s keepers.
He revealed: “To be fair pretty much everyone thinks this but I have nothing to do with coaching our keepers - that is not my role at all and I have moved away from that.
“We have a goalkeeping coach (Robbie Flett) and my job is to run the team.
“I do not get involved with the technical side of goalkeeping at the club. I try and stay away from this as best I can.”
The Jags are also in talks with several more of their players over extended contracts.
Meanwhile, as expected the Jags wait for a return to Highland League action contines with tomorrow’s home game against champions Buckie Thistle postponed due to the snowbound pitch and freezing conditions.
The other fixtures called off so far are: Forres Mechanics v Keith; Wick Academy v Clachnacuddin; Brora Rangers v Nairn County; Huntly v Banks O Dee; Turriff United v Inverurie Loco Works
