Former Fulham cult hero Kevin McDonald has rejoined Exeter City – signing a short-term deal with the League One outfit until January.
The experienced Scottish international, now 36, will start his second stint at St. James’ Park by providing cover for Gary Caldwell’s engine room and coach the club’s young midfielders, according to a Grecians’ statement announcing the form. McDonald had his Bradford City contract terminated in August after returning to a playing role having served as the Bantams’ caretaker manager after the sacking of Mark Hughes.
McDonald, who scored three goals in thirteen games seventeen months ago, told City’s website:
“It feels good. I’ve trained here for a while to keep fit and it’s great to be back. The squad is highly impressive and I’m comfortable with the environment. The squad have been great at welcoming me back. I loved my time here in 2023, which was a big reason why I came back to train here.Â
The standard and quality within the team is high and there is no limit as the manager has said previously. I’ve been impressed in training with the younger lads and the senior lads and the intensity and development has been good to see. It’s a club that is on the up and hopefully I can continue to help with that.”
The Dundee-born midfielder won two promotions in five years with Fulham, making 128 first team-appearances and scoring six goals as part of a tremendous Championship midfield trio alongside fellow Scot Tom Cairney and Norwegian international Stefan Johansen. Towards the end of his time at Craven Cottage, McDonald disclosed that he would undergo a kidney transplant having relied dialysis for much of his career.
The operation – made possible by his donor and brother Fraser – was a success and it is wonderful to see McDonald still playing. He could make feature in Exeter’s televised home game against Lincoln City on Saturday lunchtime.
