Cameron signs for Binos under-17s

Jun 20 2012 by Paul Thomson, East Kilbride News

BINOS boy Cameron Smith was celebrating this week after signing for Stirling Albion’s under-17 side.

The 15-year-old, from Crutherland Gate, will make the step up from the side’s under-15 team after scoring 47 goals for Stirling during the latest campaign.

Cameron began his football with the now defunct Stewartfield FC before moving to EK Burgh Blues.

As an 11-year-old he was then scouted by Motherwell, but a long-term hamstring injury saw him released by the Steelmen at the end of his first season and has endured a long battle to find his best form once again.

But after the Binos took a chance on him last year, he has rewarded the club with an avalanche of goals.

He is delighted to be back doing what he does best and hopes he can be just as successful at a higher age group next season.

The St Andrew’s and St Bride’s pupil told the News: “I was let go by Motherwell after my hamstring problems but Stirling coach Stewart Taylor asked me to go for a trial at Stirling and took me on for the under-13s.

“I needed physiotherapy for a while and the club put me through that to get back to full fitness, so I’ve got a lot to thank them for.

“It’s great to be offered a contract at under-17 level after a great season.

“I scored 47 goals through hard work and the help of my team mates and coaches, so hopefully I can do just as well for the club next season.”

Cameron has also represented Lanarkshire district and scored five times, helping them to the Scottish Cup final at under-15 level, scoring in the final as his side went down 2-1 to Fife.

And he cites ex-Chelsea striker Didier Drogba and AC Milan star Zlatan Ibrahimovic as his biggest influences.

He added: “They are my idols. I like to play like them as a powerful and direct striker, while also being able to hold the ball up.”