Interview: Angelo Alessio

After reading the xenophobic diatribe by Parks in one of the tabloids (online of course, I wouldn’t buy that rag) I thought it was time to look out the old micro recorder and have a chat with the new manager myself; instead of reading the ravings of a frustrated ex-player who clearly thinks his ill-informed opinion is far more important than anyone else does. The word went out and we collated many questions and chopped them down and amalgamated them into something more deliverable and wouldn’t take all day as the grass won’t cut itself, sadly. Angelo Alessio didn’t need much persuading as he is keen to talk to fans so a day later we sat down in the Champion's Lounge with Scott McClymont and after a few introductions we got straight to it…

What would you say were the key factors that attracted you to the job here at Kilmarnock?
"The chance to restart my career as a manager at a great club like Kilmarnock. I watched the game last season against Rangers on TV and was impressed with the passion of the fans and the mentality of the team."
 
Did you have an in-depth look at the Club and at Scottish football before taking the job?
"I know Scottish football and I believe it is improving year by year again."

Has anything surprised you since you have arrived?
"No, not really, I think in Scotland now there are a lot of good players and this is good for the league, the quality of the Premiership is good and getting better."

Can you tell us about your preferred style of play for the team or will you adapt the formation to the players we already have?
"I have a lot of players at Kilmarnock who were here last season, and my preferred style depends on the players I have in the squad. In this case we have a good base and for this reason I continue to do, not quite the same work as Steve Clarke, I will change some things, but I don’t want to change the style too much. You will have seen in the previous game that ten of the eleven players were from last season, only Makrini was new. In the defence we had three international team players and Broadfoot. In the midfield we had Dicker, Power, Burkey and Rory with Brophy up front, only Makrini was different. It would be stupid to completely change style when the main body of players have been playing the same style for the last few years."

What do you think were the main factors in the team’s defeat against Connah’s Quay in the Europa League? What have you learned as a coach from this result?
"I believe that if we had scored a goal in the first half this would have changed the game. We had four or five opportunities to score a goal in the first half, but at the end of the game lost 2-0 and that result was bad. This is football though and we have to accept the result, but over the two games I think we deserved something more. I watched the games back and analysed them…in the first game we conceded one opportunity and Connah’s Quay scored a goal, but we dominated the game. At home we again dominated but conceded three opportunities and two goals. We made mistakes, but overall I feel our team played better, if we’d scored a goal in the first half everything would have been different. At the same time we have to accept the result, but I would like to say that not everything is bad, there were positives to build on."

What do you generally look to focus on in your training sessions and would you consider an open training session for fans to come along and watch?
"I like to focus on players training together, not alone, that is important. My focus right now is to find the same compactness that we had last year. The players work hard every day but of course at this moment in time, after the bad result, we have to work on them having the right mentality, the right attitude and the right focus to prepare them for the next match. We hope to arrange a session for fans to come along and see our preparation work."

What is your target for the new season, have you set any bench marks for us?
"It is important to start the league in the right way and then to do as well as possible this year and be the best we can. Every player will have to give 100% to reach our best position in the table. We will work to stay in the top six, but it is a new year and a new challenge for all of us. The players are working hard every day to maintain the standards they set last year and won’t let them slip. Coming third means there are high expectations, it was a great achievement but we have lost eight players who came in on loan and currently only have two so we have to focus on bringing more quality players in."

Do you treat cup competitions with the same importance as the league or do you see them as a bonus?
"Going into a new season, every game is equally important. We want to do our best in every competition."

In terms of transfers, are there any players close to joining and can you tell us how many players you hope to add to the squad?
"At the moment we are talking to a few players and I hope to sign them soon. It has not been easy, for many reasons, but now, with a week to ten days until the start of the Premiership, we are nearly there. Hopefully we will have some good news at the start of next week."

Have you identified any areas which you think you need to strengthen?
"We definitely need strikers, midfielders and one centre back. We are casting the net wide and we are looking at any player that has the potential to improve the team, but they have to be the right fit for Kilmarnock."

What is most important to you when assessing potential signings, mental, physical or technical attributes?
"I’m looking for players who have the motivation to come to this club, and the right mentality to fit in with this team…players with skill and experience."

Have you had an opportunity to assess the youth players and do you feel there are any showing enough potential to be considered for the first team?
"A couple of the younger players are training with the first team already and they are performing very well. I hope that they can improve in the next few months or so enough to be given the chance like every other player. For me age is not a problem, they are good enough they will go into the line-up."

Have you taken any positives from the start to the season and going into the new league campaign?
"It has been good to see the way the players train every day. They have the right attitude and the right focus and they also show motivation and determination and that is very important for me. These players give me confidence that we can get good results in the future."

The manager then turns the tables on me…

Fan perception is very important to me. What do you think about the start of the season?
"There are a lot of Kilmarnock fans feeling pessimistic at the moment as they are still hurting after the Europa league exit. It was a long time to wait just to go out that soon and I think it’s a long way back to try and recover the situation at all. As it stands at the moment there is a lot of silence and not much happening because there are no friendly matches lined up, and that’s why we are doing this today, to get something out there. When there is a vacuum like this people tend to create their own stories and it is much better for the fans to hear directly from the Club and yourself rather than read the fiction they put out as news copied straight off social media. Hopefully when things start moving in terms of transfers and results we can gather some momentum and the whole place will get a lift…the sooner the better of course."

With that and the shake of a hand the new manager is ushered away to discuss a potential friendly match. He’s seems a nice enough guy and pretty relaxed and not out of his depth whatsoever. His English is probably not as good as I initially thought (mine is not that great either) but when it comes to talking football it is noticeably better and I don’t really see there being a problem getting instructions across to players. Despite all the rumours no one is demanding a transfer, but a few are signing extensions and hopefully we see the benefit of the quality over quantity approach that is being taken. There is a lot of panic in the ranks but the season is almost upon us and we just have to get behind the manager and do what fans do…support the team and hope for the best because, together we are still stronger.

2018-19 Diary Week 43

It's a bittersweet symphony this life.

We finish third, we qualify for Europe, we get ditched at the altar by the best thing that’s happened to us in years!

Let’s start with the game.

A well-deserved hard fought win over the new team from Glasgow.

We’ve taken ten points off them this year so the SFA forced Steve Clarke to sit in the stand to give them a better chance.

Then they offered him the Scotland job so he can’t torment them next year.

Our directors decision to restore home advantage resulted in the biggest crowd at Rugby Park in years, hopefully many of them will return next season.

The atmosphere was fantastic, and the fans were outstanding, to which the players responded and delivered the three points we needed.

There are too many people who deserve praise for the season as a whole to name, but I am going to mention the foot soldiers of the blue and white army…this one was for you.

We loved Steve Clarke like a brother but we have to wish him all the best and move on, he was a massive part of our renaissance but we are Killie…and Killie are back!

2018-19 Diary Week 38

The latest date added to the sesquicentennial calendar is Saturday 7th September which will see the #Killie150 Legends (working title!) night take place in the Grand Hall.

The Trust and SLO are currently working on the details but it made sense to get the date out there.

It’s an international weekend with no Killie fixture, and Scotland are at home on the Friday and Monday so nobody should miss out.

The event will be informal, it’s not a black tie event, more a blue scarf event…although we’re drawing the line at jeans or trackies!

There will be entertainment of various sorts, but in the main it will be a dance and the live band will cover music from several decades…with top chef Alasdair Hood doing a finger buffet for each table.

Jimmy McGuire will host and we are inviting dozens of Killie legends to come and enjoy the night as well.

Ticket details will be released soon, and we will be making an effort to ensure that as many fans as possible get the chance to attend.

The big news of the week appears to be the fact that we are only allocating Glasgow’s new boys the Chadwick Stand, the same stand we give to every other away team, for the last game of the season.

The inevitable reaction was calls for a boycott and only to take one stand again next season, which is a bit presumptuous as they better wait and see what is on offer.

Clearly they think this is all about them, when in truth of course it is not.

This is a brave decision by the Kilmarnock Board to put people before profit and giving the fans what we have been asking for…home advantage at Rugby Park.

We will probably not fill the three remaining stands, why would anyone think we would, but at least we are going to give it a go and hopefully a less intimidating atmosphere will bring more people to the match.

Our job now is to back the Club’s decision and get as many bums on seats as possible, and that goes for the other two home games as well, not just the final one!

2018-19 Diary Week 36

A five star performance with five unanswered goals from five different players…this is how it feels to be Killie!

While Hamilton were not the same side who recently beat Aberdeen and Hearts, the score line actually flattered them as we could have hit double figures on the day.

That said, the QTS Man of the Match sponsors must have over indulged in the hospitality to award their accolade to Youssef Mulumbu.

While the on-loan midfielder was back to his ‘ball-sticking-to-his-feet’ best, Rory Mackenzie totally bossed the whole game and it was a travesty he did not get on the score sheet.

The worrying thing for our opponents must be that two of our best players, Alan Power (3 more years...brilliant!) and Chris Burke, didn’t even start the game.

Rugby Park’s own Benjamin Button did get a cameo, and a goal, but there is no denying the Steve Clarke got his players and his tactics right on the day…at times it looked like Greg ‘goal-machine’ Taylor was on another planet!

Hibs are a different prospect though, and no doubt the boss will switch things up to suit.

All we can do is travel in numbers and get behind the team who, sitting in third place with only seven games to play, are well worthy of the support.

It’s great to see the crowds up 10% on last year but we have to keep trying to bring more people along to watch the magnificent football that is on offer at Rugby Park.

The Club is undergoing major reconstruction on and off the park and getting a few more bodies into the ground as a result would be a real vindication for the time and effort put in by everyone at the Club and would hopefully encourage more investment in Killie.

The Player of the Year Dance is at the Park Hotel next week, a bit early as always in my own opinion but I understand they want to have it while players are still here…check with SLO allenkyle@kilmarnockfc.co.uk for any remaining tickets.

2018-19 Diary Week 30

The focus on artificial pitches is getting beyond a joke.

The facts are that the majority of teams train on them, the majority of young players are fine with them and statistically it has been scientifically proven that you are no more likely to get injured on a synthetic surface than you are on grass.

100% of the people we polled agreed that synthetic pitches are absolutely fine (small print: we only polled players from Killie, Hamilton, Livi and employees of FieldTurf).

It would seem that Celtic have no problem with our pitch at all, certainly their fans didn’t when they invaded it after getting a lucky deflection in the last minute of the game on Sunday.

Not even mentioned on the telly or radio, unsurprisingly, as the thuggish behaviour of Scott Brown transferred seamlessly to the stands.

Coins thrown at Kris Boyd, fans running the length of the pitch for selfies, violence in the streets after the game…will the SFA or SPFL take any action?

Absolutely no chance.

KFCSA Statement

The committee of KFCSA are concerned and disappointed that a pyrotechnic was activated by Killie supporters in the East Stand during the cup tie against Rangers. This has previously been an issue with only away fans at Rugby Park and it is worrying that the good name of Kilmarnock FC and its fans could be tarnished by a small number of individuals.

We understand that some Kilmarnock fans also tried to ignite a device at Dundee, but it failed to activate. These devices have no place at football matches and it is only a matter of time before a fan or steward gets injured by the release of such a device; as Kilmarnock supporters please help us to make sure it is not one of our fans who is responsible.

KFCSA urge supporters to refrain from setting these devices off either at home games or away grounds. Let us continue to support the team during this fantastic season but with due respect and regard for the safety of all Kilmarnock supporters.

Iain Sherry
Chairman
KFCSA

2018-19 Diary Week 25

Greg Stewart’s recall this week has been another blow to our plans but the Club have been willing to push the boat out to keep him and Steve Clarke is waiting on Birmingham responding to our latest offer.

The Trust’s Tweet about how 3,000 Killie fans signing up for the Trust in Killie initiative entry level would have put another £360,000 into the coffers last year has caused a bit of a stir, with a veritable storm of new memberships and fans subscribing to TIK.

There has been 29 new memberships taken out and 100 new subscribers to TIK in the last couple of days! This begged the question for many, what is the difference between the “Killie Trust” and the “Trust In Killie” initiative?

The Killie Trust (Kilmarnock Supporters’ Society Ltd.) has 1,465 Shareholders and 609 active members and costs £10 a year to join. Your first £1 buys your share and the rest goes into the general fund to operate the Trust. Your membership should renew automatically every year as long as there is £10 in your account to cover it. If you keep your membership ‘active’ then you will receive mailshots, be allowed to vote and be eligible to put yourself forward for the Trust Board.  You can sign up HERE

Trust In Killie (TIK) is the main initiative being undertaken by the Killie Trust at the moment. There are currently 357 subscribers who pay between £10 and £25 a month into this and every penny goes to the Club to buy unallocated shares, creating a tax free revenue stream to boost our budget. The initiative has already delivered £100,000 to the Club and in return we now have a representative on the Club Board. Targets for Phase Two of the initiative will be discussed at the Trust’s AGM on  Wednesday 16th January but regardless of what is agreed upon, our contributions allow the Football Club to reallocate funds to whatever they deem necessary so in effect it is all really just going into the same pot. You can sign up HERE

More details including a Frequently Asked Questions page can be found HERE

Money

How good is it to be a Killie fan right now? That answer to that is simple, it is fantastic! Now pass me that jug of cold water for a bit of a reality check. Matters on the pitch seem otherworldly at the moment and the new additions to the Club Board off the pitch have certainly livened things up as well, but how sustainable is this Killie resurgence and what can we do to keep it going as long as possible? Therein lies the big money question…and the answer is ironically, big money.

Football clubs generally have peaks and troughs and the trick is to push the boundaries when you are on the up so that the inevitable crash is less significant and the ‘rebuild’ easier to bring about. Successful (and unsuccessful) managers tend to move on quickly and as much as we definitely are all enjoying the wonder that is Steve Clarke while he is here, we are all secretly dreading the day that he has to be replaced. Apologies for even mentioning that, but nothing lasts forever, apart from Ayr United’s trophy-less run.

We can’t hold on to the big man indefinitely, but we can benefit from his time here and we can use that wisely and plan for the future with his guidance. The last thing we want is to have a couple of glory years and then leave his legacy to chance. As good as it is going toe-to-toe with the so-called ‘big’ teams and having no fear at the prospect, I would urge some thought be given to what lies ahead and how we can maintain our current high and do it in a sustainable fashion that will not leave us in debt again or even worse, in the grubber.

Many fans are expecting the club to lift the artificial pitch and replace it next season when we get a new training facility, which is fine apart from the fact we can’t afford a new training facility. The current surface is nearing the end of its shelf life and it would cost an absolute fortune to rip it up and put in a proper grass, never mind a hybrid, pitch. The truth of the matter is that we will be stretched even paying a couple of hundred grand for a direct replacement. There are going to be a lot of disappointed fans out there when they realise that idealism comes with a hefty price tag.

Then there’s the SFA and our inclusion in Project Brave. Lots of unnecessary wages and a training complex that includes a three quarter sized indoor synthetic pitch, a full sized outdoor synthetic pitch and at least one full size grass pitch. We have been ‘lucky’ enough to be selected as one of the clubs that will spearhead this nationwide initiative and save the future of Scottish Football. Sorry for the language, but balls to that, despite the fact we are allegedly only one contract away from meeting the criteria…one too many if you ask me.

Project Brave is a complete non-starter in my opinion, and in the opinion of most football clubs in Scotland. This Utopian master plan is just too expensive for most clubs to afford and the SFA will end up having to scrap it or completely change the current guidelines. Forget it, it is a waste of time and we should not even be considering it, we are probably only playing along safe in the knowledge that the goalposts will at some stage be moved, and there is no harm in staying involved up to that point as there might be something in it for us later.

That does not take away from the fact that we still need proper training facilities if we want to keep our players on top form and fighting at the right end of the table. The players deserve the best we can afford and Steve Clarke deserves no less. The problem is, despite the current resurgence in interest and the on-field heroics, we just do not have the funds available to build what is required and it would be grossly unfair to assume our current directors, whom have already splashed a lot of their own cash, should stump up the millions we are going to need. How can we expect our current manager, or any who follow him, to get the best for our club if we can’t even provide them with up-to-date coaching facilities?

Sadly there are no easy answers. Attracting big money investors is an obvious option but we have been there before and that well is all but dry. Selling all our best players wouldn’t bring in enough, and kind of defeats the purpose. The Board have an unenviable and near impossible task of not only trying to raise enough money to provide the necessary facilities, but to manage the expectations of a fan base on an unprecedented high. No one wants to think about practicalities when we are sitting in a lofty league position and don’t look like we have even got out of second gear yet.

This is not an attempt to depress you with pragmatism, this is a wakeup call that we have to strike while the iron is hot and do something now, not later. The proverbial lottery win is out of our hands, but that is not to say we should just accept what is deemed to be our lot and not aim high. Steve Clarke’s mantra has been “together we are stronger” and as per usual the big man has got it right. The only way we can secure the future of our football club is to start chipping in ourselves and looking for ways to raise the funds which are needed.

The majority of Killie fans are already contributing in some way, and the obvious thing to do is to encourage more people to support their local team and spread the load. More ticket money, more strip sales, more sponsorship, more hospitality…with more fans all that becomes achievable and certainly helps us on our way…but it is not quite enough. The Foundation of Hearts have just announced they’ve reached £8m worth of donations, which is enviable to say the least and understandable as they are a big city club; but that’s not to say we couldn’t emulate that, albeit it might take a bit longer and we might need a few generous cash injections along the way.

Last year the Trust in Killie initiative raised in excess of £100k with only 250 fans contributing on a regular basis. With 4,000 fans we could have raised £1.6m which is not too shabby when you think about it, but obviously still well short of the mark. Does that mean to say we shouldn’t go for it anyway? Of course not, it’s money in the bank for the club for free and to make more money you need money to start with. If you think this is a sales pitch for TIK you’d be partly right, to be fair though its more of a sales pitch for everything Killie related as it is all going in the same pot and all counts toward our goals.

The new £10 TIK entry level has been launched already at your request and the Trust will soon be giving it a big push. The bottom line here is that we need our fans to buy into this as much as they are buying into attending games again. It’s fantastic that we are on the cusp of selling out three away matches on the bounce…but how much money does Kilmarnock FC make out of that? It’s brilliant, but it’s not profitable, we need to sell out Rugby Park, and I mean with our fans, not old firm fans…would that even be possible? I don’t see why not, not in the long term at least, and a few short term hits in the meantime would not go amiss.

I sincerely hope that the Steve Clarke revolution continues for many years to come, but ultimately what he can achieve will be down to how much the club and the fans can back him, financially and otherwise. The ‘otherwise’ is not a problem, away from home at least, we need to sort out the home attendances and seriously consider what it is going to cost to deliver a fit-for-purpose training facility and a transfer/wage budget that will ensure our club flourishes on the big stage and continues to beat as the heart of our community. It’s not all bad news, that’s the water jug empty, the good news is that the situation is manageable and that our future rests in our own hands, not in the hands of others. Ask not what your club can do for you…

Barry Richmond
(KillieFC.com)

Legends Match

The Football Club have asked the Trust to supply five players for the Legends Match at the Rugby Park Open Day this Sunday (29th July 2018). Players have to be over 18 years of age, be in reasonably good shape and be available to play on the day. Kit will be provided by the club and returned afterwards.

Due to lack of time we are asking that anyone interested in taking part email killiefc.com@gmail.com or get in touch via social media and we will draw the names from the proverbial hat on Thursday afternoon and let you know further details if you are selected.

If you feel you are too old, not fit enough, or simply don't want to take part in the game, you can still put your name forward for selection and then nominate someone to play in your stead...provided they too meet the criteria for inclusion...they do not need to be a Trust member or a TIK subscriber themselves.

The Open Day should be a lot of fun as always and we would encourage everyone to drop by even if you are not taking part - there will be a Trust 'stall' there on the day and members of the Trust Board at hand to answer any questions you may have and have forms on hand to sign up for the Trust and/or the Trust In Killie initiative.

KFCSA AGM Notice

Information regarding the Annual General Meeting

The Committee of KFCSA advise that the Association’s Annual General Meeting will held in the Park Suite at Rugby Park, Kilmarnock, starting at 2pm on Saturday 23rd June 2018.

The current Chairman David Sneddon has indicated that he wishes to stand aside and does not wish to serve a second year as Chairman. Iain Sherry (the present Secretary) has been proposed for Chairman by Allen Kyle and seconded by Jim Thomson.

Iain Sherry is resigning as Secretary. Terry McGarry has been proposed as Secretary by Iain Sherry and seconded by David Sneddon.

Vice Chairman Allen Kyle and Treasurer Sharon Caldwell will serve their second year in their respective positions having been duly elected to serve two years at last year’s AGM.

New Committee member - Denis Smith has been proposed by Karen Steel, seconder
Iain Sherry. Committee Members Jim Thomson, Karen Steel, Ally Ross, David Sneddon and James Morrison have all been duly proposed and seconded and will be standing for re-election to the
Committee.

The Committee invite any other persons wishing to stand for the Committee to please submit applications to the Secretary Iain Sherry in writing with details of proposer and seconder no later than 13th June 2018.

Iain Sherry
(Secretary)

Email: 1965ktid@gmail.com

The Best Defender We Never Had..Neill Collins

Today we have professional footballer and massive Kilmarnock fan Neill Collins joining us to talk us through his career and about some of his highlights following Ayrshire's finest. We have some excellent stories featuring below today including a disagreement with ex-Killie Assistant Billy Brown,  hilarious story about a last minute winner at Somerset and many other Killie favourites.

Let’s get started then...

1) Who was your biggest influence growing up as a kid?
The biggest influence on me growing up was my parents and in terms of football my Dad. He played professional football himself for Airdrie and spent time playing for a very good Auchinleck Talbot team. He knew when to push me and when to encourage me. Without doubt his influence gave me the confidence to believe I was good enough to have a career in the game especially during times when other people doubted me.

2) I read that you were released by Kilmarnock's youth team at age 13, how difficult was that to take and also as a fan of the club?
I was released by Killie at around 13 years old. It was terrible at the time but probably proved to be the making of me. I remember Stuart McLean telling me the news and I was devastated. I managed to hide my emotion until I got in the car with my Dad then burst out in tears. I genuinely believed I was going to play for the club I supported and this was not what I had in mind. The biggest disappointment looking back was the short sightedness of the decision as I hadn’t developed as much as other players physically. For example Kris Boyd was in my team but he was like a man and I was still a boy while technically I was good I was hadn’t fully developed physically. What this whole episode did was give me the biggest motivation and desire to prove the people that had made the decision wrong.

3) Queen's Park followed for you a year of two later and then onto Dumbarton. How were the lower leagues for your development?
I joined Queen's Park at 15 and loved every minute of my time there. I played in their under 16 team that won every game that season and comfortably beat Killie 8-2 amongst other Pro Youth teams. It was one of the most enjoyable points of my career. I think Queen's Park is a fantastic place for young players to begin their careers and learn the game. After playing a full season for Queen's Park first team at the age of 18, Dumbarton came in for me after playing against them in pre-season. Dumbarton was a step up the ladder and I got the opportunity to play with better and more experienced players. In my first season I played with Gary McCutcheon and one of my favourite players growing up, Tam Brown. I captained the team at 19 and we narrowly missed out on promotion by one point. It was a huge part of my development and I made some very good friends during my time at both clubs. I don’t think I could have had a better learning experience after playing over a 100 games in the Scottish 2nd and 3rd Division.

4) You were on trial at Kilmarnock before signing for Sunderland in 2004, why didn't that move materialise for you do you think?
I did join Killie on trial before signing for Sunderland but the move never happened as the club never tried to make it happen. Gordon Smith arranged for me to go in for pre-season before my trial at Sunderland. In my first week we got ran in to the ground in what was possibly one of the hardest pre-seasons I have ever done. I was one of the fittest players there but I never got the opportunity to play any football or impress during any practice games with the team despite the fact they were desperately looking for a centre back. At the end of my first week Jim Jefferies and Billy Brown pulled me into the office and explained that the £25k transfer fee to activate my get out clause would be too expensive. To be perfectly honest I don’t think they made any effort to look at me as they weren’t interested in signing a young centre back from the second division. One of the things that motivated me most after the whole experience was Billy Brown’s condescending attitude towards me. He tried to patronise me at first by saying they would come to watch me next year at Dumbarton. After I explained that I wasn’t going back to Dumbarton he retorted with “Who do you think is going to sign you?” He quite clearly couldn’t get his head round the idea that there might be some good players in the lower divisions that you actually had to go and scout and see for yourself what they had to offer.

5) You showed Billy Brown up that is for sure and went on to make a great career for yourself and played against many great players,  can you name the top three opponents you faced?
Wayne Rooney, Kevin Phillips & Bastien Schweinstiger - all exceptional footballers.

6) Having played for some really big clubs in England such as Sunderland, Leeds, Sheffield United & Wolves...what would you say your best moment was during your time in England?
That is a really tough question as it was filled with many great moments. Winning the
league title at Wolves and Sunderland were both special but I was probably too young to really appreciate both of those achievements. I really enjoyed the FA Cup run with Sheffield United as we broke some records along the way winning ten games on the bounce and keeping eight consecutive clean sheets I think I played some of my best football during that period.

7) If you had to choose a favourite goal you have scored in your career which one would it be?
Again very tough as I have been fortunate to score a few important goals. I scored a last minute winner for Wolves away to Doncaster that sent us well clear at the top of the league at Christmas time. The away end was packed that day with thousands of Wolves fans and the atmosphere in the dressing room after that goal was hard to beat so I will go for that one.

8) You are now playing out in Florida with the Tampa Bay Rowdies, how is it going out there?
I love living in Florida and really enjoy playing for the Tampa Bay Rowdies. It is a great club that is really well run and our home stadium is unique being based near a Marina with a beautiful pitch. The travelling takes some getting used to but it has been great to experience a different culture and meet new people.

Now onto some questions about Neill's life supporting Killie...

9) You make it no secret that you are a massive Kilmarnock supporter but how did your love of Ayrshire's Premier club come about?
My Dad was brought up around a lot of staunch Celtic fans but he chose to support his local team, Kilmarnock. He took me to my first game around the age of five. If my memory serves me correctly it was against Brechin at Rugby Park and Tommy Sloan scored the winner. I have various memories from my first few visits and I particularly remember a bad defeat away to East Stirling and the Killie fans voicing their displeasure. This was before things started to improve and our rise through the divisions.

10) Who were your favourite Killie players growing up?
This list could be much longer as I loved so many players growing up for a number of different reasons. My all time favourite was Tommy Burns but I had a variety of different names on the back of my various Killie jerseys, Gary Holt & John Henry to name but two. As a centre back I used to love Andy Millen and the way he played. He was a class act. Ally Mitchell was an under rated player that was also one of my all time favourites. Dylan Kerr, Drago Lekovic I could go on forever.

11) Do you have a favourite match that you attended as a supporter?
There have been many fantastic days as a Killie fan and it would be easy to pick the Scottish Cup final but a personal favourite was beating Rangers at Ibrox 2-1 when Bobby Williamson tapped in a last minute winner. It was our first year back in the Premier League. I was surrounded by Rangers fans at school and they were the dominant force in Scottish football at that time. When the ball was put in the net the feeling was unbelievable and I can remember going absolutely berserk. It was also great to know I was going to have bragging rights amongst my friends even if it was only for one night.

12) Your favourite Kilmarnock shirt of all time?
Would have to be the jersey we wore the year we got promoted out of the first division. Absolutely loved that one.

13) You played against the mob South of Symington a couple of times in your career, how was it playing against your boyhood clubs rivals?
I think I am right in saying I have played against "THEM" twice in my career with a 100% record. At Dumbarton we played them in cup competitions two years running. In the first game at The Rock we beat them 3-0. I was directly up against Eddie Annand and James Grady. When the third goal went in we celebrated right in front of the main stand and I caught eyes with one guy in the A*r end that looked like he was going to burst a blood vessel as he tried to get on the pitch to throttle me. I absolutely loved it. A year later we went down to the Piggery and were drawing 1-1 until late on. When we came out for the 2nd half the Ayr fans started abusing me and singing “Dirty Killie b@#$&rd” every time I touched the ball. We scored a winner right in the last minute and instead of celebrating with the boys down at the away end I turned round and gave it loads to all the home fans behind the goal. It was one of my favourite moments in football. I had taken their abuse all night and I made sure to take my opportunity to get it right up them.

That last answer is probably one of my favourite answers ever in any interview I have seen. I, like many other Killie fans I'm sure, have dreamt of doing something similar at Somerset. Fantastic Neill. Hilarious!

14) Tommy Burns was a Killie icon in the early nineties, what are your memories of his period at the club?
Tommy Burns was my hero as a player and as a manager. I have many great memories of the great man. I remember running on the pitch after our last away game of the season at Raith Rovers and shaking his hand while he was surrounded by Killie fans. He had been in temporary charge and had led us to a fantastic end of the season. I just knew the next year was going to be our year with him in charge and the Killie fans obviously all felt the same way as they sang “Tommy Burns Blue and White army” and completely mobbed him on the field at Kirkcaldy. I once wrote to him after we beat Raith Rovers in the Scottish Cup 5-1 and you won’t be surprised to hear that he wrote back later thanking me for my support and to keep getting behind the team. I still have the letter in my Mum and Dad's house somewhere. Without doubt a Killie legend.

15) Steve Clarke is a guy you probably know from your spell in England. What are your thoughts on his half season Killie revival?
There are no words to describe what Steve Clarke has achieved at Killie during the past few months. I wrote a blog after Lee McCulloch was sacked and it seemed the club was destined for relegation but more than that we were a laughing stock to the nation. The whole club has been rejuvenated since that point and thankfully people are now getting a sense of what the club is really all about and just how big a club we are. We have such a faithful and loyal following that deserved so much better than what the club was providing on and off the pitch. It is brilliant to see the numbers travelling to places like Hamilton and Easter Road in recent weeks. It reminds me of the good times under Tommy Burns. There is no higher accolade than that for Steve Clarke.

A Journeyman's View is Neill's blog well worth checking out.

16) If you personally could have featured for Killie in any game of the clubs history, which game would it be and why?
I would love to say the last game of the season when we won the league all those years
ago but instead I am going to go for a game that I attended. It would have to be the Scottish Cup final in 1997. To lift a trophy as a Kilmarnock player was my dream as a youngster and still is now. Winning a trophy at a club like Kilmarnock etches your place in the history of the club. I also think I could have handled Kevin James in the air so we would have been fine with me slotting in at the back.

17) Do you feel disappointed that you never got a proper opportunity to pull on the famous blue and white stripes at some point in your career?
Without doubt it is a disappointment that I never got to play for Killie although I can’t have too many regrets about my career as I have been fortunate to play for some great clubs in England. There have been opportunities in the past few years but just never at the right time and if I am being brutally honest the installation of the Astro turf pitch didn’t help matters. I was used to arriving at Rugby Park as a fan and seeing the best grass pitch in the country. It is one of the most frustrating parts of playing in the US is the Astro turf pitches we have to play on from time to time. It is like a different sport. I really hope for the fans and players sake we can get back to a grass pitch soon.

18) Can I have your best eleven that you have played with during your career?
1. Matt Murray (Wolves) 2. Kevin Foley (Wolves) 3. Steven Ward (Wolves) 4. Harry Maguire (Sheffield United) 5. Gary Breen ( Sunderland) 6. Karl Henry (Wolves) 7. Robert Snodgrass (Wolves) 8. Dean Whitehead (Sunderland) 9. Sylvan Ebanks Blake (Wolves) 10. Marcus Stewart (Sunderland) 11. Joe Cole (Tampa Bay Rowdies)

19) What does the future hold for Neill Collins in the next few years, future Kilmarnock manager possibly?
I have always had an eye on the future and had an appetite to be a manager as long as I can remember. I have my UEFA A License and I am getting as much experience of coaching as I possibly can. It would be a dream to manage Kilmarnock one day but for now I would love to play at least another couple of seasons and then see what transpires. One thing I have learned in football is that things can change on a day to day basis so you have to be prepared for that and never think to far ahead.

20) Finally do you have a message for your fellow supporters before you go?
I want the fans to enjoy the fact that they have a good manager in charge and a team to be proud of on the pitch. There has been so much negativity that has followed our club for the past few years and it is the fans that have had to suffer more than anybody. No one should ever under estimate the passion and loyalty of the Killie fans it is one of the reasons we are such long serving members of the Premier League. Unlike our closest rivals we will never accept mediocrity and that is what makes us so special. Some younger fans are only just starting to get a glimpse of just how big the club really is.
Buy your season tickets and back the club. K.T.I.D

Before leaving Neill also provided us his favourite Killie team also having seen previous interviews.

I'd like to thank Neill for taking the time to answer these questions so well and give us all a great insight into his career and Killie supporting life. Id like to wish Neill all the best for the rest of his playing career and maybe we will see him back at Rugby Park some day in the future. Signing off today with a message to the Ayr fans who are still firmly in our shadow...

WFAANW

One to Eleven with Jérôme Vareille

This week we caught up with Frenchman and Ex Killie forward Jerome Vareille to get his memories of playing in Europe and about his time at Rugby Park.

Vareille began his career in his homeland France with FC Metz. Only scoring once in seven appearances for them before heading to FC Mulhouse in 1995. FC Mulhouse are the second oldest team in France. Jerome played two seasons with them and scored 12 goals in 78 appearances.

In the summer after our 1997 Scottish Cup victory, Kilmarnock spent our pre-season in France and Jerome scored twice against us in a friendly game. Bobby Williamson offered him a trial, he did well and was offered a contract which he accepted and moved to Scotland.

In the next five years to come he would play 113 games for Ayrshire's finest, scoring 16 goals in what would be a very successful period for the club. Playing alongside a very talented group of players including - Ian Durrant, Gary Holt, Ally McCoist and Paul 'Bunion' Wright.

Killie would play in Europe against Kaiserslautern, OGC Nice, Shelbourne and FK Željezničar in his time with the club, and he loved playing against Nice in particular, as he mentions later in this article.

Jerome would leave Killie in 2002 to join already doomed Airdrieonians in what would be their final season in existence. He would set a Scottish league record in 2004 at Airdrie United with 4 goals in 14 minutes, a record that still stands today. After scoring 29 goals in his 89 appearances for Airdrie during his spell at the club, he left.

Vareille then signed with the team South of Symington in 2005.

In deepest darkest Ayrshire between 2005 and 2008 (when he was released) Jerome plodded away with Ayrshire's worst team, amassing 19 goals in 82 appearances for the Colins.

Retiring in 2008, he made 362 appearances in his footballing career which lasted 17 years. In that time he scored 75 career goals with 62 of them coming in Scotland.

Jerome took a step away from football after his playing days and runs a sandwich shop in Hamilton called Viva. He still follows Kilmarnock's results and thought his time at Killie initially would only be for six months or so, but he has now stayed in Scotland 20 years, considering himself half Scottish.

 Lets hear from the Frenchman now...

1) As a boy growing up in France, who was your footballing idol?

Easy! Michel Platini with St Etienne. When I was seven I used to wear his top everywhere, even when I was sleeping.

2) How did your move to Kilmarnock come about?

I was with Ayr United for a weeks trial and didn't particularly enjoy it so headed home. Fortunately at the time Kilmarnock were in France for pre-season training. I played a few games and ended up signing a contract with Killie.

3) Which player or players were the best you played with during your time with Killie?

We had a great team spirit at Kilmarnock and played in Europe most of the seasons at that point. Individually we were all pretty talented but collectively we were outstanding. If I had to single out one player it would be Gary Holt, he was the engine of our team and a great player.

4) During your career which player was you most difficult opponent?

I will definitely say Bobo Balde with Celtic. He was absolutely huge and very strong. 

5) Do you have a favourite goal for Kilmarnock?

Yes, my goal away at Dunfermline after a four month spell on the sidelines with a shoulder injury. It was a lovely half-volley from 18 yards out, a great finish. We also won 6-0 that day which made it even better.

6) Who were the jokers at Killie when you were there, do you have any funny stories?

Not hard to answer; Coisty and Durrant were the main men at that time, they were hilarious together. What is said and done in the dressing room stays there unfortunately. Sorry!

7) Which stadium in Scotland was your favourite to play in?

After Rugby Park, I would say Easter Road because of how well I played there in my games over the years. My first start for Killie though was at Easter Road and we went down to ten men quite early that day and I had a total nightmare.

8) You made 113 appearances for the club, do you have a favourite match you played in?

I'd say the match in Europe away at Nice in France. All of my family made it down to watch me and the Kilmarnock fans were incredible that night. It was also live on French TV and a massive game for the club. In France we drink a liqueur called 'Pastis' with water and after the game my Dad, who was attending, said he met Killie fans and they were drinking it straight out of the bottle. He was in total shock as it is 40% alcohol! That was very funny.

9) What is your thoughts on Steve Clarke's Killie revival this season?

Steve Clarke has totally transformed the club in a short space of time. It shows how important a good manager is to the club. The next few seasons should be exciting and I am sure Killie will be back in Europe very soon.

10) Can i ask you to name your best eleven you played with during your career?

Yes formation 4-4-1-1.

Marshall

MacPherson - Montgomerie - Dindeleux - Kerr

McLaren - Reilly - Holt - Nevin

Durrant

Wright

I'd put myself on the bench to be polite!

11) Ending on a controversial question Jerome, who do you prefer, Killie or Ayr?

I played for Ayr for three seasons in my career but Kilmarnock will always be where my heart is. The years I spent at Rugby Park were my best memories in football. Definitely Kilmarnock for me.

And a final message for Killie fans before you go?

Keep believing, supporting and enjoying this fantastic club.

ALLEZ  KILLIE et BONNE CHANCE 

2017-18 Diary Week 37

Big Kirk Broadfoot is getting a mention this week again after mystic Hippo advised us to back him for first goal scorer at 40/1 for the fourth week running.

It was a happier than normal bus heading home from Hamilton for sure!

Remember kids, when the fun stops, stop, only there seems to be no stopping the Mighty at the moment.

Again with key players missing we toiled a wee bit in the first half, but never looked in any danger.

Boydie’s 128th goal sealed the 2-1 win (we even score their goal as it bounced in spectacularly off Fasan’s back) and sent the 2,505 Killie fans home happy.

Unbelievable in this day and age that we can go to another SPFL team’s ground and have 700 more fans than them…and this for a ‘nothing’ game.

Take a bow the Killie support!

It was also great to see the players at the POTY Dance on Saturday night, and staying to the end partying with the fans.

Don’t give up the day job Jordan!

We are a breath of fresh air in Scottish football, the media clearly don’t like it and are trying their hardest to get Steve Clarke moved to Govan.

Jack Ross has had a bit of success and he’s getting the same treatment as Steve or anyone else that has shown a slight bit of promise.

It’s getting boring now, lazy journalism and tired speculation at its worst.

Killie are embarking on this Project Brave thing next season and we are considering using the Ibrox club as a feeder team.

Well if we are publishing made-up stuff we may as well make it sound believable!

Killie Masters Invitational 2018

Join a host of Killie footballing legends at the inaugural Killie Masters Invitational to be held at Ballochmyle Golf Club on Wednesday, 23rd May, 2018.

Your three-man team will be joined and captained by one of the following ex-players who wore the famous blue and white stripes and served our Club with both distinction and pride...

Alan Robertson, Stuart McLean, Derrick McDicken, Paul Clarke, Jim Clark, Robert Reilly, Robert Connor, Blair Millar, Sam McGivern, Tom Black, Gary Holt, Ian Durrant, Garry Hay or James Fowler…with many others still to be confirmed!

The cost of entry for a team is £200 which will include green fees, brunch prior to competition, two course meal at the conclusion, entry into additional course competitions (chipping and putting etc.) and the raffle. Following the evening meal, there will be a short prize-giving ceremony and auction.

Depending on availability, you may also enter as an individual at the cost of £65 and be allocated a team.

This is not a corporate event, this is a golf day for the fans and ex-players to have a bit of a laugh with a competitive edge (you never lose it apparently). We have worked with Ballochmyle and our sponsors to keep costs to a minimum while still putting something into the Trust In Killie kitty. If you are also interested in some sponsorship then please indicate that on your email to us and we can let you know what is available.

ENTRY SCHEDULE

12th - 25th April: Exclusive entry for ‘Trust in Killie’ Subscribers

26th April - 2nd May: Entry open to ‘Killie Trust’ Members (depending on availability)

3rd May Onwards: Open Entry (depending on availability)


Entry forms can be obtained by emailing KillieFC.com@gmail.com or calling Trust Chairman Jim Thomson on 07748 252455.

Rory McKenzie talks Life at Killie

This week I chatted with current Kilmarnock FC midfielder Rory McKenzie about his career so far. We talked about the funniest players, idols growing up and how this season has been for him personally. This week he put pen to paper on a new two-year deal at Killie, keeping him at the club till the 2020 season. This should see him to complete ten years at the club on a professional contract and potentially qualify for a testimonial at the grand old age of 26!

Currently Killie's longest serving player and having captained the club at age 22, he has amassed an impressive 187 matches for Kilmarnock scoring 17 times. Rory has played pretty much every position for Killie in his time with us. His versatility has hindered him in the past, in my opinion, a very hard working solid professional who is willing to do a real shift and fill in where he is needed for the team.

Unfairly criticised at times, in my eyes, I think Rory is a extremely underrated member of our squad, and I was delighted to see him given a new deal last week. I think we will see the best of Rory now in a settled position on the right of our midfield. He has scored some excellent goals in his time so far, including a goal from nearly the half way line, away at St Johnstone last season. I also recall a few years back at Dundee, an incredible solo run from 70 yards out, leaving four or five opponents for dead, before slotting the ball home.

Fun fact - Rory qualifies for Trinidad and Tobago international team through his Grandmother. He also has studied for a degree to become a lawyer in his spare time.

Lets hear from the man himself...enjoy...

1) How did you signing for Killie come about?
I had played with Caledonian until I was 7 years old and then played with Troon up until the age of 11 or 12. I enjoyed playing with my friends so didn’t go pro-youth until a few years later than the likes of Ross Davidson and other boys I knew. I signed with Kilmarnock when I was 12, I think.

2) Biggest influence on your career?
I would have to say my Mum and Dad. I know everyone says that but if it wasn’t for them taking me to training and away matches, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

3) Toughest player you have played against?
I remember we played Sunderland in a pre-season friendly a few years back at Rugby Park and I played against Stephane Sessengnon. He was quite small but quick, very intelligent with the ball.

4) Top three players you have played with in your career?
I’d say Gary Dicker, Sammy Clingan and Stuart Armstrong with Scotland under 21s. Gary and Sammy are both incredibly calm on the ball no matter what situation they are in.

After hearing those three players I mentioned it was refreshing to have a different perspective of players from the usual suspects Eremenko etc. Rory replied with -

Cannot believe I forgot about Alexei he was some player, you probably should stick him in with Boydie as well, incredible finisher.

5) Favourite goal you have scored for Kilmarnock?
Would have to be my goal against Ayr in the Cup at Rugby Park a few years back. Good atmosphere and a decent crowd that night. Always good to score against Ayr.

6) Best moment at the club so far?
It would probably have to be the draw at Ibrox earlier this season. I don’t know why but just the way the game had gone and with the penalty miss and then going up the other end and snatching an unlikely draw was really very satisfying for us. An excellent point and a good start for the manager which kicked off our season. Momentum has grown ever since that game.

7) Who was your favourite player/idol growing up?
I was a Manchester United supporter when I was younger and always had the strips with Beckham on the back. David Beckham for me definitely.

8) The revival this season under Steve Clarke has been massive, how has this season been for you personally?
I have enjoyed this season massively. I played at the start when the manager came in to the club and I was loving it. I found myself missing some games in November but I am proud of the way I bounced back and got myself back in the team after Christmas.

9) What players have really made you laugh in your time at Kilmarnock?
There have been so many funny guys at the club in my time here. I’d say Paul Heffernan, who had a very dry sense of humour, but I found him really funny. From our current squad Boydie, Gaz Dicker and Jordan Jones love a joke.

10) Knowing that you are a keen golfer Rory, which golfer would you like to play a round with if you
could?
Has to be Tiger Woods, fantastic golfer and probably the biggest name in sport.

Thanks to Rory for his time. All the best to him for the rest of season.

Forever and Ever

One to Eleven with Manuel Pascali

This week I caught up with Kilmarnock legend and current Cosenza Calcio player Manuel Pascali. I will be finding out about how his move to Killie came about and his thoughts on the recent Steve Clarke revival. Manu grew up on the streets of Milan as an Inter Milan supporter. His mother he joked was an Ultra at the San Siro. He played football at an amateur level in Italy most of his teenage years.


Pascali played his first ever professional season in the year 2000. Age 19 a young Manu signed for Sant'Angelo this would be his first foot on the footballing ladder so to speak. Alessandria, Pizzighettone and Carpenedolo would follow over a seven year spell in Italy's lower reaches. Predominantly in Serie C the third highest league in Italian football. This is where a young Pascali would learn his trade playing in over 200 games for these clubs scoring 30 goals across a seven year period (2000-2007).

Serie A club Parma would come calling and purchase 26 year old promising midfielder Pascali in summer of 2007. Unfortunately for Manuel the club loaned him straight back out immediately. Heading to Foligno in the same league he had just come from. Pascali featured 32 times that season in the clubs push for promotion to Serie B. They would fall at ultimately the last hurdle in the play off.

The Summer of 2008 -2009

Jim Jeffries Kilmarnock side head to usual Tuscan Mountain training camp Il Ciocco. Manuel Pascali comes on trial and stars in midfield. He returns with the Ayrshire men on trial and features in pre season games at Rugby Park. Scoring the winner in 1-0 win over QPR. Kilmarnock make an enquiry to take him on loan for the season. Parma relegated from Serie A that season eventually agree to a sale an undisclosed fee of a rumoured 125 thousand pounds. Pascali is a Killie player. Signing a three year deal.


Pascali, an unknown quantity to Killie fans, features in his first start at Rugby Park against Hibs. The Italian midfield enforcer looking imperious in the centre of the park goes straight through Hibs right back David Van Zanten. Getting his first of about 800 yellow cards that season the Italian had set his stall out early. Van Zanten stretchered off two minutes gone. Pasca as he was nicknamed by the Ayrshire faithful quickly became a fans favourite. His no nonsense approach and his incredible passion made him a real cult hero.


Pasca would score his first Killie goal vs Hamilton in a 1-0 victory at Rugby Park in August 2008. Making 35 appearances that season a real stalwart in the Killie midfield.

10th January 2009
 
Killie head to Somerset to play rivals Ayr in 4th round of Scottish Cup. Pascali would score the opener in a very eventful tie which Killie should have won. Over the next few seasons Manu would continue to be a midfield menace getting booked 18 times in the 2010-11 season over 39 matches. Three one match bans due to persistently getting booked over the season.

Late September 2011 Killie would lose at Ibrox to Rangers just before their unforgettable demise. Two - nil the score. Pascali is involved in a bust up in the tunnel after handbags on park with Kirk Broadfoot. Killie's current centre back and enforcer. Kenny Shiels referred to Kirk Broadfoot as the "ugly boy from Rangers " up against "the male model from Ayrshire" in his post match radio interview. A fight I'd have paid to see! No love lost between the two bruisers with Kirk Broadfoot claiming "he was in my face saying he was going to kill me". Pascali dismisses these claims by saying Kirk is a "publicity seeking coward".

Two months later in November Kirk and the terminally ill Rangers roll into town. Pascali puts them to the sword, heading in a winner as Killie beat Rangers 1-0 at RP. Interviewed after the game Pascali says it was the "best moment of his career so far".


In 2012 Killie would draw Ayr at Hampden in the semi final of the league cup. Ayrshire would flood Glasgow's south side. Kilmarnock totally dominant lead by Pascali would get a winner in last five minutes of extra time through Dean Shiels. Bedlam as Killie end erupts and celebrate reaching a final the following month. 
Unfortunately in February 2012 it would be heartbreak for Manu as he would break his leg in training whilst over stretching for the ball. He would miss the final and the rest of the season.


March 18th 2012

Killie were at Hampden to face 26 games unbeaten Celtic in the league cup final. Manager Kenny Shiels set his side up and they played their heart out. Killie fans outnumbered three to one by Celtic supporters belted out songs enjoying their day. Captain fantastic Pascali was seen hobbling around on crutches before the game giving encouragement to the boys on the park before taking seat in dug out. Kilmarnock would inevitably beat treble chasing Celtic with a fantastic team move and great finish. Scenes !! The place exploded. Killie would see out the remaining minutes. Champions.

Pascali on the park with his crutches, the fans jubilant and full of anticipation. Despite being injured Pascali was club captain, but he insisted that club legends Garry Hay and James Fowler also lifted it, as he knew how much the victory meant to them. Showing the measure of the man with that act of togetherness and respect to fellow players. The cup lifted above the three Killie men's heads. Goosebumps even writing it just now. Killie would parade it in front of the ecstatic support. Pascali lifted by his team mates on top of shoulders crutches in the air. Brilliant scenes back at Rugby Park as Manu with a Killie scarf wrapped round his head leads the chant "let's all laugh at Celtic".

Pascali would sign a three year deal the week after. Shiels describing him as pivotal and such a big character. The next few seasons weren't quite the same. A lot of unrest after Shiels sacking, turning support against chairman Michael Johnston. Clubs fortunes turned for the worse and we had some pretty horrid times. Pascali would be offered a new short contract but at reduced terms and despite being desperate to stay to get his testimonial he reluctantly moved on.
Pascali would go on to say "Michael Johnston created so much negativity around the club" citing him as one of the reasons he left.

Returning to Cittadella in his home country in 2015 after 7 years in Scotland. He played two seasons achieving promotion in his first to Serie B. He made 37 appearances in his two season stint with Citta scoring 4 goals. Leaving in summer 2017. Now at his current team Cosenza Calcio in Italy's third tier he has gone full circle, back to where it all began as a youngster. Only 3 appearances in the league for 36 year old Pascali this year.

Personally for me a man that i hold in the highest regard. He never once shirked a tackle and gave his all for our club. He helped win us a cup and gave us many fond memories in which we are all grateful. His hard exterior on the pitch was in contrast to his funny and friendly manner off of it. I am sad he didn't achieve a testimonial here. He was certainly worthy of one. His passion knew no bounds for our club. Something rare in a foreign player. He became a Killie local and hero.

Grazie Pasca


Now let's hear from the man himself as I caught up with him this week about his time at Ayrshire's Finest. Enjoy his One to Eleven...

1) Can you tell us firstly how did your move to Kilmarnock come about?
I got in touch with the late Stefano Salvatori who used to play for Hearts under Jim Jeffries. He asked me if i fancied a trial with Killie whilst they were on a preseason trip to Italy. I said yes and then after two weeks I had signed.

2) Did you settle in well at Kilmarnock easily or was it hard to adapt to Scotland at first?
It was pretty easy from my point of view. I found everything i needed and club was very welcoming to me. Although it did take time to get used to the weather though.

3) In your time at the club which player or players would you say were the best you played with?
There were plenty of good players in my time. I would mention Craig Bryson and Alexei Eremenko though. Probably the best two!

4) In your time at Kilmarnock you managed to score fifteen goals. Do you have a favourite?
I would have to say the one against Ayr at Somerset in my first Ayrshire Derby. Scoring the only goal and winning 1-0 at Rugby park against Rangers was so wonderful also.

5) Having worked with Kenny Shiels for a couple of seasons how was he as a manager?
Kenny was a great manager. We had a fantastic time together. A very nice and honest man with a great attitude and love for his work and the club.

6) What was your favourite game to play in for Killie?
Killie against Ayr in the cup semi-final at Hampden. An incredible atmosphere that day and a cracking game for the community.

7) How disappointed were you to be unable to play in the 2012 league cup final?
I was gutted of course after playing every minute of the other cup games. I felt though like i played in that game. I was on the pitch with my team mates and I felt like i did my part. A wonderful day for us all. 

8) Who was your toughest opponent whilst playing in Scotland?
Gary Hooper was a very tough player to play against. Him and Samaras were great together! Both were really strong and fast. On their day they were a real handful.

9) What was your funniest moment at Killie?
Probably all the Xmas nights out with the team!

 10) What do you think of Kilmarnock this year under Steve Clarke?
We are flying. I recently watched the full match against Celtic at Rugby Park and I thought we looked like a proper team. Good players and really well organised. Every player looked like they knew exactly what to do in their position and worked with real togetherness. The plan worked perfectly. Steve Clarke has taken Killie into the top six after years and looks like he really means business. He has signed a great player in Mulumbu. Mulumbu and Jordan Jones are doing very well and even the back four impressed me in that game. A special mention also to Boydie. Looks like he has got Italian blood in him, nearly 35 and still going strong!

11) Finally and most importantly Pasca. Do you see yourself ever returning to Killie as a coach or manager in the future?
I would absolutely love to! KTID! Manu, Manuel...