HOP RIGHT BACK ON THE HORSE
Jim insists Ayr need to pick themselves up after boss’ exit
INTERIM Ayr boss Jim Duffy says the Honest Men must remain focused following David Hopkin’s shock exit as they get set to welcome Dunfermline.
Hopkin handed in his resignation on Thursday morning having won just one of his 13 league games in charge, leaving them second bottom of the pile.
Ex-Dumbarton gaffer Duffy joined the coaching staff at Somerset in June.
And he said: “It is certainly not the circumstances anyone would choose to be taking a team in but sometimes these things happen in football.
“It was totally unexpected but we have been employed as coaches and been asked to prepare the team for the game, so we just have to use our experience and be professional.
“Ultimately the responsibility to pick a team and put them out on the park on Saturday rests with us, so that is all we can focus on. The players were definitely shocked on Thursday and things were a bit flat at first.
“It was just a case of picking ourselves up and looking ahead to a really important game with Dunfermline.
“The players have to respond properly and the best way to do that is to get three points.” Nikolay
Todorov has revealed exCeltic hero and countryman Stan Petrov is a source of inspiration as he dreams of a breakthrough with Bulgaria.
But he insists his focus for now is Dunfermline and trying to help the club overcome their nightmare start to the league season.
On his arrival at East End Park in the summer, Todorov said he had discussions with Bulgaria head coach Yasen Petrov over a potential call-up.
The 25-year-old was convinced joining the Pars could help his cause.
But, after scoring four goals in his opening five matches, things have nosedived at club level.
Todorov said: “I speak with Stiliyan and he gives me good advice. My dream is to play for my country and I’ve not given up on that just because we’ve lost games with Dunfermline.
“That’s when character is built – when times are tough and you have to show what you’re really made of.
“You need to be fully focused on your club and do your job there first.
“Then the national team is going to come as a bonus and a reward for what you’re doing at your club. That’s my dream.”