Midfielder Kevin’s first new recruit
East Kilbride secured the signing of former Hibs and Inverness midfielder Kevin McCann on Monday night.
The 29-year-old is Billy Stark’s first signing at K-Park since he took the reins on June 16 and will go straight into the squad for Saturday’s friendly against a Celtic XI.
McCann will link up with his former Inverness team-mate David Proctor, who played alongside him in the Highlands in the 2010/11 season.
On Monday night, Proctor gave Kilby fans a taste of what McCann is capable of when he posted a video on Twitter of his one and only goal for Inverness – a 30-yard screamer in a 4-0 win over Dundee United in 2010 – quipping:“A few more of these would be good...”
And Proctor has told the News what Kilby fans can expect from the new boy.
The 33-year-old, from Whitehills, said:“I’m not sure the fans can expect that kind of finish every week, but Kevin’s a good pro who looks after himself and he will be a great asset to the club.
“He’s a very adaptable player who can play in various positions in defence and midfield for us, so he’ll do a job wherever he plays. Most recently, I think he’s been in central midfield.
“His biggest asset is he’s a
possession and chasing the ball. That’s a different experience for us to tackle.
“Results are not the most important thing at this stage of the season.
“Everyone is looking forward to it.”
Stark had his first warmup match on Saturday in a bounce game against EK Thistle after scheduled opponents Leith Athletic pulled out at the last minute. Kilby won 3-0.
EK also face Championship outfit Brechin City tonight before hosting the Hoops.
The Kilby gaffer will welcome back defender Craig Howie and goalkeeper Jacob Kean to the squad after a holiday, while midfielders Adam Strachan and Ricardo Corrieri miss out as they are heading for a short visit to warmer climes.
“One or two are away on holiday, which is par for the course at this time of the year, and we’ve got a few coming back in time for Saturday’s game,” said Stark.
“It’s been a busy few weeks getting to know the players and I’ve seen a lot of positives so far.”
Meanwhile, as skipper Barry Russell looks forward to the clash he still can’t believe Kilby managed to lure Stark to K-Park. He said: “It’s massive for East Kilbride to have him on board.
“I was on holiday when it was announced and I was amazed we got him. I didn’t expect it.
“He worked with Tommy Burns for years at Celtic, he’s been with Scotland and the U21s, so he’s got experience at the highest level and that is huge for us. I don’t think we could have done much better.
“Saturday is our first big game and everyone is excited for it. It will be a great test for us and it will be interesting to see how far off we are.”
EK take on a Celtic XI on Saturday, kick-off 3pm. Tickets are still on sale from K-Park, priced £8 for adults and £4 for concessions.