Livi kid Scougall’s only regret is he didn’t switch to Lions sooner

Feb 10 2011 by Eric MacKinnon, West Lothian Courier

Livi kid Scougall’s only regret is he didn’t switch to Lions sooner

LIVINGSTON starlet Stefan Scougall has revealed he rejected the chance to be part of Dunfermline’s First Division promotion push to join the Lions — and the classy midfielder admits he wishes he had made the move to West Lothian two years ago.

Scougall had full-time terms on the table from The Pars — currently sitting second in the First Division with a real chance of promotion to the SPL — but as soon as he heard of Livi’s interest, there was only one place he wanted to go.

The 18-year-old has already made a big impact in the Livingston youth team and was also handed a senior debut back in October.

Scougall is loving life at the Lions so much he admits he wishes he had moved to West Lothian in 2009 when there was initial interest.

He said: “Last summer, I think Brian Welsh (Livi’s Head of Youth Football) was trying to bring me to Livingston but I had already signed for Dunfermline.

“Dunfermline actually did offer me full-time terms as well but by that time Brian had been back on the phone again and asked me to meet with them — and I was delighted to move here to Livingston.

“I wish I had signed for Livingston two-years ago, as it is brilliant here, instead of being part-time with Dunfermline.

“With another year of full-time training, I’m sure I would have progressed even more.

“It has been a great first season so far although I have had a few injuries this season.

“I keep going over my ankle which isn’t helping but I’m back training again and, hopefully, that’s behind me now.”

Scougall reveals his top-team debut in a league win over Stenhousemuir came as a surprise especially as he had turned out for the Under-19s the night before.

He continued: “I played a game the night before my debut and the gaffer told me I was in the squad for the following day, which was a big surprise.

“I was named on the bench and ended up making my senior debut.

“The team were 4-0 up, so I thought I might get chucked on in the closing stages but I was sent on with 20-plus minutes left, which was amazing.

“It was a great moment but I was really nervous. The boys urged me to get on the ball and try to pass it. But playing that day has made me want to do my best to play more often for the first team.

“If I keep working hard in training then, hopefully, I’ll be given another chance with the squad if I keep working hard and improving.”

In the meantime, the teen — who insists he is happy to play anywhere across the midfield – is aiming to play his part in another trophy-laden campaign for the Under-19s.

He added: “We’ve got a great team at Under-19 level and are doing really well. The big games keep coming and we have a Youth Cup against Aberdeen on Sunday. I believe we are capable of going up there and beating them.”