Ross County have announced the loan departures of five young players to Elgin City in League Two and Alness United in the North Caledonian League. The moves come as part of the club’s development strategy, with striker Calum Brown and midfielder Lewis Mackay joining Elgin City, while Ruaridh Campbell, Sam MacLennan, and Alexander Brown will play for Alness United for the 2026/27 season. The Staggies finished 10th in the Championship last season with 34 points, 8 wins, 10 draws, and 18 losses, ending their campaign with a 3-2 defeat to Raith Rovers on 1 May 2026.
Who are the players involved?
Calum Brown, a striker who made his first-team debut for Ross County last season, will join Elgin City after previous loan spells with Invergordon and Strathspey Thistle. Midfielder Lewis Mackay, who won the North Caledonian League’s young player of the year award last season, also moves to Borough Briggs. Meanwhile, Ruaridh Campbell and Sam MacLennan, who recently signed their first professional contracts, and goalkeeper Alexander Brown, who impressed in pre-season, will gain experience with Alness United.
Why are these loans important for Ross County?
The loans are part of Ross County’s focus on youth development, with the North Caledonian League proving successful in nurturing young talent. Campbell Money, the club’s football development director, praised Alness United as a competitive platform for the players to grow. The Staggies’ recent form shows a need for fresh talent, with the team losing their last two matches and finishing 43 points behind league leaders St Johnstone last season.
What did the managers say?
Elgin City manager Stefan Laird welcomed Brown and Mackay, highlighting their potential to strengthen his squad. He praised Brown’s pace and power, as well as Mackay’s technical ability. Meanwhile, Ross County’s Stuart Kettlewell has spoken highly of Mackay’s pre-season performances, while Campbell Money thanked Alness United for their commitment to developing the young players.
What’s next for these players?
The youngsters will now look to make an impact at their loan clubs, with Elgin City aiming to build on their League Two campaign and Alness United targeting the North Caledonian League title after finishing second last season. For Ross County, the loans represent a key step in preparing the next generation of first-team players, with the club hoping to see them return more experienced and ready to contribute.
