I wouldn’t let one of my boys slag fellow pros like Kris did
KILMARNOCK v ABERDEEN Del insists Killie star was wrong to slate Dons duo but says it’s no grudge match
DEREK McINNES insists he has no problem with punditry.
But the Aberdeen gaffer is adamant none of his players would be allowed to follow Kris Boyd in hammering their fellow pros.
The Kilmarnock striker slammed interim Scotland boss Malky Mackay for calling up Dons pair Kenny McLean and Graeme Shinnie for the friendly against Holland at Pittodrie two weeks ago.
He blasted Shinnie, who wasn’t called off the bench during the 1-0 defeat, and said he just wasn’t good enough for international football.
But McInnes pointed to Boyd having been given his chance for Scotland – so why not the Reds midfielder?
He said: “I have no problem with anyone in the media giving his opinion and Kris Boyd is paid by several outlets to do that.
“I don’t agree with what he said just like I don’t agree with a lot of what pundits say. Where it crosses the boundaries is that he’s speaking like an ex-player – so that’s where it doesn’t feel right. But that’s nothing to do with me, that’s an issue for Kilmarnock.
“It wouldn’t be one of my players but if they are happy about it then it’s up to them.
“I know Kris but I haven’t spoken to him about it. He’s been asked for his opinion and has given it.”
McInnes revealed the criticism by the ex-Rangers forward was mentioned inside Pittodrie but the clash with Kilmarnock at Rugby Park tomorrow should not be seen as a grudge match.
The Dons boss said: “I doubt he thinks my boys are bad players. For me the Scotland game at Pittodrie was the perfect chance to give them a go at it.
“If they play 10 games at international level and haven’t done well then maybe his opinion would be valid. But someone somewhere along the line gave him his chance to play at international level. Everyone needs to be given their chance.
“Punditry has become different these days. Now it’s shootie-in, everyone is trying to be wilder and more controversial. Maybe that’s the way life has gone, rather than just football.”
McInnes highlighted the improvement in Killie since Steve Clarke took over as gaffer. They’ve lost only once in his five games in charge and McInnes added: “They have a system. It’s compact and they are more difficult to break down. They don’t give away as many chances.”
Gary Mackay-Steven reckons the news that the manager is remaining at Aberdeen offers him and his teammates a major boost.
The winger still has to find his best form at Pittodrie but insists he’s on the way to making the impact the fans are looking for.
He said: “I think I speak for everyone in the changing room when I say we’re happy about
that. It’s great news for everyone. A lot was said outwith the club but going into games we didn’t change anything.
“Nothing was said, training was the same and we just went about our normal business.
“Looking back I don’t think it had any effect on us.
“He was obviously a big reason for me signing here, so from a personal point of view I’m pleased.
“But everyone who has been here, or are just new and working under him, is learning a lot from him. It’s great he’s continuing. “You certainly want to play for him. He gets you up for games and the training is really enjoyable. He’s a great manager in my eyes.
“I think my own form has been okay. It’s great to be getting game time. I feel good and I feel fit so I really want to use this month to show my best form and hopefully that will come.”