Machado departs to rejoin his old club

The midfielder arrived at Links Park from Rothes two year ago, but a desire for more game time saw Montrose accept a bid for the 24-year-old.

The Brazilian is no stranger to Borough Briggs having previously played for Elgin during the 2021/22 season.

Montrose boss Stewart Petrie said: “I would like to thank Matheus for all his efforts whilst he has been here.

"He is a great lad, with a great personality, was always very professional in the way he trained and played and will be missed around the group.

“Recently we have been unable to give him the amount of game time that he craves, something we totally understand and respect.

"So, when the opportunity arose with Elgin, and a significant offer was put on the table, it quickly became obvious it was the right thing for all the parties involved.

“We wish Matheus all the very best for the future.”

The deal for Machado to join the League Two side was announced on Saturday ahead of Montrose’s trip to East Fife in League One.

Taylor Sutherland was the hat-trick hero as the visitors ran out 3-2 winners to move up to fifth in the table.

Montrose went in front after 36 minutes as a Blair Lyons cross was deflected into Sutherland’s path to score from eight yards.

However, the lead would last barely a minute, Sam Culbert cutting in from the left to curl his effort past Harry Sharp.

The away side dusted themselves down and two minutes before the break were in front once again.

Mamadou Bah tripped Lyons in the box and Sutherland kept his cool from the penalty spot.

East Fife were level once again on 62 minutes with Andrew Steeves sliding a driven cross by Reis Peggie into his own net.

Montrose would need get themselves in front for a third time to claim the three points, and did just that with 15 minutes left.

Bah gave the ball away at the edge of his own box and Sutherland combined with Callum Sandilands to claim his hat-trick.

Montrose host Kelty Hearts on Saturday and then Peterhead on Tuesday.