Born in Rochdale, Greater Manchester, Buchanan was called into the Northern Ireland under-19 squad in November 2004 for their match against Italy.

[7] Buchanan made his debut for Preston on 13 August 2012 against Huddersfield Town in the first round of the League Cup.

[9] Buchanan signed with League Two club Northampton Town following his release by Preston North End.

[11] In June 2019 Buchanan signed a two-year contract to play for Chesterfield in the National League for the 2019/2020 season.

[13] In 2021, Buchanan signed for Manchester Football League Premier Division side Rochdale Sacred Heart following his release from Chesterfield.