Anderson enjoying life as a Spartan

The 25-year-old striker from Peebles notched the first goal in the Ainslie Park team’s 3-1 Image Printers Cup win over Selkirk, another of his former sides.

However, Anderson, who is currently Spartans’ under-19s coach, could have ended up back at Netherdale after being linked with the manager’s job when Fraser Lothian resigned in August.

Instead, Garry Fraser took over and has led the side to second place in the First Division, as Gala aim to return to the East of Scotland League’s top flight for the first time in eight years.

Asked about the speculation linking him to the Gala job, Anderson told TheSouthern: “Obviously I played there and they needed a new manager, but Garry Fraser is there now, and he is a very good coach.

“They were a bit unlucky against Coldstream (lost 6-1) the previous week, but I think it is only a matter of time before they are back in the Premier Division.

“With their 3G facility, and the talent down in Galashiels, I expect them to be promoted sooner rather than later. I think the Premier Division needs them back up as well.

“I don’t know about returning to Gala.

“I am quite happy here and things are going well. But you never say never.”

Anderson’s first foray into coaching saw him take Gala Fairydean’s under-19 squad to a League Cup final in 2011, only to lose 3-2 to Edinburgh City.

His move to play with Spartans last season coincided with the frontman taking over the club’s under-19s team.

Still in the role, alongside another former Gala man, Keith Boyes, Anderson is also coaching with an SPL side.

And on the pitch he aims to help Spartans regain the Premier Division title, which Stirling University won in 2011/12, alongside team-mates Andy Martin, also of Peebles, and Kelso’s Jack Beesley.

Anderson added: “I know a few people at Hibs, so I have started working with their under-15s.

“It is giving me the chance to get some new ideas and continue to learn.

“Coaching is something I enjoy, particularly working on the training ground.

“I am enjoying my football at Spartans. We are getting the chance to train on superb facilities every week.

“We are doing well, and are undefeated in the league, so hopefully we can keep that going as long as possible.”