Jones confident he can get back to best form
IF confidence was readily available to buy, then it would be the most expensive product on the market.
Jordan Jones openly admits he has not been at his best for Kilmarnock this season. Since re- joining the Rugby Park outfit on loan in the summer, the winger has been in and out of the team and has struggled to make an impact.
There can be defining moments in the season for both clubs as a whole and players individually. Jones hopes Saturday was his.
The 28- year- old scored a stunning volley with seconds remaining to sink Dumbarton on Saturday. The League Two leaders put up a valiant effort to contain the Ayrshire side and could well have nicked progression to the Scottish Cup fifth round themselves.
However, Jones’ terrific strike at the death ensured that Killie booked their slot in the last 16 of the competition.
Jones knows he has not showcased that kind of ability enough this campaign. He is determined to change that, though.
He said: “The ball seemed to stay in the air for quite a while – it seemed like forever – but you’re taught as a kid to keep your eye on the ball and try to keep the ball down. Thankfully I did that and thankfully it was the winning goal.
“I always say there are two types of confidence. I’m always going to be confident in my ability – I know how good a player I am when I’m at the top of my game.
“Then there’s a confidence from going on the pitch and things just happening for you. I just don’t feel like I’ve been at that level this season, but I’m working every day trying to get back there and I’m confident I will.
“I think that’s fair to say I haven’t played as much as I’d like, but I respect the manager and his decisions. I’ll openly admit that I don’t think I’ve been at my best. It’s not for the lack of trying, and confidence is a massive thing in football.
“Last week [ the Viaplay Cup semifinal defeat to Celtic] was a disappointment but it’s made the squad more hungry to get back there.
“We’re just desperate to get back there again and ticking Dumbarton off the list was the next step.”