COWDENBEATH have bolstered their attacking options by swooping for a highly-rated forward from near neighbours Dunfermline Athletic.

Jake Sutherland, who is from the town, has signed for the Blue Brazil on a season-long loan deal.

The 17-year-old, whose elder brother, Taylor, also plays with the Pars, attended Foulford Primary School, and Beath High, and started his footballing journey with the Blue Brazil Boys Club.

He went on to join the Fife Elite Football Academy, which transitioned into the Dunfermline Athletic Academy, and made his first team debut for the Pars in a 2-2 draw at Ayr last December.

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In April, he and Taylor scored Dunfermline's goals in their 2-1 win over Livingston in the SPFL Reserve Cup final and, speaking on his move to Central Park, commented: "I’m delighted to join Cowdenbeath on loan for the season.

"I’m excited to get started and get more first team experience in a very challenging league."

Boss Dougie Hill said: "I'm really pleased that we have got Jake in to supplement our attacking options.

"He has an excellent attitude and we are confident this loan will elevate his game further. He’s also a local lad and I feel that is a real positive as well.

"I am looking forward to working with Jake."

Colin Nelson, Cowden's football operations co-ordinator, added: "It’s great news that Jake is now confirmed to be joining us.

"This is an arrangement we have been working on from the end of last season. Jake is an excellent finisher and his previous loan spell at Crossgates saw him impress at the end of last season.

"We believe this is the right club and ideal environment for Jake to develop further. Our grateful thanks again go out to Dunfermline for their cooperation and willingness to make this loan happen."