Mason Hancock joins cinch Championship side

 Aberdeen FC youngster Mason Hancock has this morning headed out on loan.

The defender has joined cinch Championship side Arbroath and he will spend the 2022/23 season at Gayfield.

The left-footed centre back, who was originally part of the Fulham Academy, signed for Aberdeen in August 2020 after a successful trial. The 19-year-old from south London previously had spells at Woking and Oxford United.

Mason, who featured for the first team in the successful Premier Sports Cup group stage matches, helping the side keep four clean sheets, signed a new one-year contract extension with the Club in January 2022.

He enjoyed a successful loan spell with Stirling Albion during the 2021/22 campaign, making 14 appearances for the cinch league Two side.

Mason captained the Aberdeen B side in the SPFL Trust Trophy last season, leading them to wins over Brora Rangers and Arbroath whilst also featuring on the bench on a number of occasions for the first team.

AFC Pathways Manager Neil Simpson believes this move is a great opportunity for Mason to continue his development at a side who did so well last season.

He said: “Mason has shown during his performances in the recent Premier Sports Cup matches that he has great potential.

“This loan period at Arbroath will provide playing opportunities and help him further develop his game.

“These loan experiences are designed to build players who will be ready to compete in our first team and provide a pathway to reaching their potential. I’m sure Mason will maximise this time with Arbroath and return to Aberdeen a more rounded player and will be ready to challenge for a regular first team place.”

Everyone at AFC wishes Mason well during his time at Gayfield.