Ryan McGowan, an Australian-born defender primarily playing as a central defender for Livingston, was born on 15 August 1989 which makes him a seasoned veteran in the sport at age 36. A sturdy player, McGowan's 1.91m (6ft 3in) height and 75kg (11st 11lb) weight prove advantageous in his position, and his number 5 jersey has been seen on and off across many leagues. His current market value, according to Transfermarkt, is around £44k.
McGowan's professional league debut was made when he joined Hearts in the Premiership in Scotland in January 2008. During his time with Hearts, his appearances gradually increased, culminating in the 2012 - 2013 season where he featured in the first team in 20 league matches. However, before establishing himself at Hearts, he was loaned out to Ayr United and Partick Thistle, both in the Championship. The 2009 - 2010 season at Ayr United was particularly productive with McGowan making 28 first team appearances and scoring a goal. He likewise demonstrated consistent performance at Partick Thistle.
McGowan's time in Scotland was followed by a transcontinental transfer to the Super League in China, joining Shandong Taishan for a fee of around £400k in January 2013. Carefully toeing the line between defensive duty and attacking support, McGowan netted a goal in both his seasons with the Chinese side while also featuring regularly in the first team.
His next move was a return to Scottish football as he joined Dundee United in the Premiership in January 2015. McGowan continued his football journey by venturing out to various leagues from China, the UAE, England to Australia, eventually finding his current place at Livingston in the Premiership in Scotland in July 2024. The defender's involvement in these leagues has been characterised by frequent first team appearances and occasional goals.
Seeing action in League Cup 2025 - 2026 with five starts, the Scottish Cup 2025 - 2026 with a single start, and the Prem. Play-offs 2024 - 2025 with four starts, McGowan continues his steadfast participation for Livingston in the current season, having made 18 first team appearances in the league matches so far. Despite his globetrotting football career, one cannot overlook his numerous contributions to the Scottish game.
