Ross Jack has hailed the impact youngster Nikolas Wozniak has made since returning to Turriff United.
The 18-year-old striker had headed to Dyce Juniors on loan at the start of the season.
But following a raft of Turriff injuries he has returned to the Haughs.
Since being recalled, Wozniak has started United’s last two matches – 4-1 victories at Rothes and Forres Mechanics.
In the latter, he scored twice. And boss Jack has been pleased with his contribution.
He said: “I have been impressed with Nikolas since he came back.
“We knew he was a good player when we sent him out on loan.
“We might have liked to have left him a bit longer but with our injury list we had to recall him.
“And he’s come back and has hit the ground running in the last two games, against Rothes and Forres.”
Wozniak’s manager at Dyce is former Turriff striker Mike McKenzie.
Jack was quick to pay tribute to McKenzie and Dyce for their role in helping Wozniak improve.
“It’s been really good – we know what Mike’s like and how he coaches,” he said.
“Nikolas was frustrated early in the season when he wasn’t getting enough game time, so it’s been great to be able to send him to Dyce with Mike and get him game time.
“For a young player that is part of their apprenticeship, going out on loan.
“Nikolas has been prepared to knuckle down, train hard, listen and learn.
“He’s done really well in the Juniors, so we just need him to keep going now.”
Midfielder Liam Strachan has also been on loan with the Aberdeen club. He has also been recalled as injury cover for Turra’s next few games.
Jack believes the partnership United and Dyce have formed is excellent for developing players.
He said: “Working with Dyce is a great fit for us and our young players.
“It’s a great education playing under Mike at Dyce.
“We’ve got faith in the boys that they’ll play the right way, train the right way and get taught the right way.
“It also benefits Dyce because they get to have promising young Highland League players in their team.”
Wozniak will be looking to impress his manager again tonight when Turriff host Cove Rangers in the Highland League.
United have the chance to go fifth in the table, while John Sheran’s third-placed Cove, with a win, can move to within three points of Buckie and Brora at the top.
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