COWDENBEATH have finalised a pre-contract arrangement with League 2 side Spartans for Sam Newman, who will return to Central Park after his existing deal with the Edinburgh club runs out at the end of June.

He was on loan to the Blues for the whole of season 2022/23 and he excelled in that campaign, earning the Player of the Year award and the Players’ Player of the Year award.

Newman said: “I’m delighted that I am signing for Cowdenbeath, after really enjoying my loan spell at Central Park.

“It was a no-brainer to look to join on a permanent deal.

"I hope to help bring Cowden success and am keen to get started. Thanks too to Colin Nelson for helping with the arrangements."

Newman previously spent four years with Edinburgh City, before making the short move to Spartans in 2021.

Last season he made a number of appearances for the Ainslie Park outfit in a League 2 campaign which saw them make the promotion play-offs.

A left-sided player, Newman is happy in a left-back role or in a wide midfield area.

Blues’ manager Dougie Hill said: “It’s great news that we have managed to get Sam to commit his future to Cowdenbeath.

“We needed a left-sided player and he has qualities I am looking for in a full back/wing back.

"The club was always keen to bring Sam back and I’m excited to get to work with him.” 

Nelson, the club’s football operations co-ordinator, said: "It is fantastic that we have managed to agree a two-year deal with Sam.

“We tried a couple of times to get him back after his loan spell, where we saw first-hand his quality and attributes.

“I think it’s a coup getting Sam back, especially given his real enthusiasm to rejoin us and to play for Cowdenbeath. I’m sure the fans will welcome Sam’s return."