Born in
Rochdale,
Greater Manchester, Buchanan was called into the Northern Ireland under-19 squad in November 2004 for their match against Italy.
Hamilton Academical He signed for
Hamilton Academical in July 2010
Tranmere Rovers He moved to
Tranmere Rovers in the summer of 2011. The club offered him contract terms for the 2012–13 season. Although the club reported that he and his agent had agreed a two-year contract, they reported on 24 May that Preston North End had agreed a deal with them.
Preston North End Buchanan made his debut for Preston on 13 August 2012 against Huddersfield Town in the first round of the
League Cup. On 17 December 2013, Buchanan extended his contract with Preston for a further twelve months, thus keeping him at the club until the summer of 2015.
Northampton Town Buchanan signed with League Two club Northampton Town following his release by Preston North End.
Chesterfield In June 2019 Buchanan signed a two-year contract to play for Chesterfield in the National League for the 2019/2020 season. At the end of the 2020–21 season, Buchanan was released.
Rochdale Sacred Heart FC In 2021, Buchanan signed for
Manchester Football League Premier Division side Rochdale Sacred Heart following his release from Chesterfield. ==Career statistics==