Montrose FC Club Captain, Paul Watson will depart Links Park in the summer, after a remarkable 387 appearances for the Gable Endies, spanning more than a decade and making him the 7^th highest appearance holder of all time at the Angus Club.

Joining from St Andrews United back in 2012, the 39-year-old had to first survive the inaugural Pyramid Playoff in 2015, before leading the Mighty Mo to the League 2 title just three years later, followed by an incredible 5 Championship Play-off semi-finals in the last 6 years.

Currently the second longest serving player at Links Park, the Dundee born midfielder should be immensely proud of having Captained Stewart Petrie’s side through arguably the most successful era in the Club’s 145-year history.

Paul is also the second highest goal scorer amongst the current squad, netting 45 down the years, the most memorable of which came against Edinburgh City in April 2017, when from 58 yards, he managed to lob the goalie, a goal that went viral with over 350,000 views across social media.

In addition to his role of Club Captain, Paul has also assumed the role of Ambassador for our award-winning charity, Montrose Community Trust, assisting in the delivery of events and programmes, including appearing at community football sessions together with speaking at mental health and suicide awareness sessions.

Paul’s commitment to both the Club and the local community was celebrated last season with a range of thoroughly deserved Testimonial events, and Manager Stewart Petrie is well aware of the huge loss that will be felt around Links Park.

Stewart said, “I would like to say a massive thanks to Paul for everything he has done here over the last 13 years. From the minute I walked in the door, he has played a huge part in delivering the success we have all enjoyed in recent times.

“His character and professionalism make him a natural leader and as Captain he has been a great influence both on and off the park.

“He has been a fabulous servant and great role model, and it will surely only be a matter of time before he enters the Clubs Hall of Fame for what is an outstanding personal achievement that few nowadays will ever come close to.

“We wish Paul, Linsey and family all the very best for the future.”

In response, Paul commented, “At the time of signing in 2012, I never imagined how much the club would become a part of not only mine but my family’s life for over a decade.  We have shared some great times on and off the park and I’m proud to have been a part of it all.

“Sadly, we all knew this day would come but I take with me unforgettable memories and friendships that will last a lifetime. Hopefully over the next few weeks we can finish the season strongly and I will get the chance to say farewell to everyone.”

Club Chairman John Crawford added, “On behalf of the Club I would like to sincerely thank Paul for his incredible dedication and commitment over the years.

“He has become such a constant at Links Park over what has been a 13-year adventure, from the lows of the Pyramid Play-Off days to the amazing highs of winning league 2 and our repeated success in reaching the Championship Play-Off’s season after season.

“In years to come, when we affectionately reminisce back to these glory days, Paul’s name will be inseparable from the conversation, which says it all.

“We too wish Paul, Linsey and family all the very best for the future and I am sure many of the wider MO community will take the opportunity to pass on their thanks to Paul in person over the remaining games of the season.

“Finally, it goes without saying, Paul will be welcomed back to Links Park as a guest anytime.”