Neilston manager Kevin Muirhead is tipping young midfielder Ross Cabuk for big things after monitoring his progress in recent months.

Cabuk made the step up from the under-20s to the first team at the end of last season and will now be sent on loan to Giffnock to gain some more experience.

However, Muirhead admits the youngster's impressive performance in last week's friendly with Yoker Athletic left him in two minds about that loan deal.

He told Barrhead Sport: “Ross was in there with a point to prove and he’s about to go out on loan, which is making me scratch my head and wonder if I’m doing the right thing.

“He’s probably ahead of some of the players who are playing at the moment. He’s a really good player with a bright future and there’s exciting things to come from him."

The Farmer’s Boys made the short journey to Holm Park last Monday night to meet Second Division outfit Yoker, losing the match 4-3.

Jake Hughes scored twice and Lloyd Wilkie also found the net for Muirhead’s team but it was Cabuk's performance that caught the eye as he used his size, speed and energy to make a positive impact in both boxes.

Muirhead added: “He’s going to go to Giffnock on loan and I would expect him to go there and be an absolute standout.”

The Neilston boss also praised new arrival Luke Crerand, who joined the club last month and has already had a positive impact.

Crerand won a penalty – converted by Cammy Haddow – in the recent 1-1 draw with St Roch’s.

Muirhead said: “Luke is a really good player. We tried to get him to the club in January but he had the opportunity to go and play in the Premier League.

“It didn’t work out for him, so we’ve brought him in now and he’s done really well over the past couple of weeks.

“He gives us good energy, great use of the ball and holds it up really well, which allows us to get our forward players running.”

Neilston had been due to face Port Glasgow in the Strathclyde Demolition Cup at the weekend but the tie fell victim to the weather.

Although the pitch at the Parklea Community Stadium was playable, torrential rain led to flooding in surrounding areas.

The teams are due to meet at the same venue at 2pm this Saturday.