Holt reveals Livi’s youngsters are in awe of new coach Efe

GARY HOLT has revealed some Livingston youngsters are in awe of Efe Ambrose as he hailed the experienced defender for finding his voice as a coach.

The 31-year-old was recently named as Marvin Bartley’s assistant with the reserve side and Holt says he has taken to the role like a duck to water.

Former Celtic and Hibs hero Ambrose has long been one of

Scottish football’s characters due to his amiable personality, acrobatic celebrations and sometimes regrettable penchant for a high-profile mistake.

But he also boasts an enviable pedigree, including six major honours with Celtic and an Africa Cup of Nations triumph with Nigeria.

It’s that experience he’s drawing on when he steps on to the coaching field and Holt said: “Coaching is not something you would probably associate with Efe but he’s really enjoying it and it’s pleasing to see.

“The younger lads are almost in awe of him at times and that’s a positive thing to have.

“He’s coming out of his shell more too. Efe’s not very vocal but since he’s taken on the role he hasn’t shut up! Sometimes I think: ‘ Why did you not go down this route earlier? Why did you not offer to do it?’

“Maybe the pandemic has opened his eyes and thought he had to do something going forward. He’s certainly embraced it and long may it continue.”

Holt insists both his veteran stars are benefitting from the new perspective offered by their coaching duties as they continue to be key figures on the pitch.

He said: “It can absolutely help them as players. It’s funny, we go the games and I hear Marv shouting the same things we shout at them on a Saturday.

“I shout down sometimes and tell him: ‘Now you can see what we’re talking about!’ It’s good for his and Efe’s development.”