New year return to dugout for Harvey
Rutherglen Glencairn boss Willie Harvey says he will take over first-team duties again in the new year, following his Covid battle.
The Glens gaffer was struck down in September and only returned to the dug-out in an observational capacity a fortnight ago.
Harvey says Joe Pryce has done a great job in his absence, but is looking forward to retaking the reins – even if he says their relationship is so strong it’s not really like one of them is ‘in charge.’
He said: “We informed the players at the weekend that after the new year I’ll probably start coming to the forefront again.
“I’ll be in charge again.
“To say somebody’s in charge doesn’t sound right, because I’ve worked with Joe for so long.
“But if it comes to a decision that has to be made and a final decision, then I’ll be in charge.
“I had started coming to the games to see what was going on, started going down to training, just watching what was going on and getting myself eased back into it.
“I was basically there as a sounding board and another ear to listen to and to have my opinions – at the end of the day it was down to Joe Pryce and [coach] Stevie Hutchison to pick the team and things like that.”
During his break from the game Harvey admits he has been touched by the good wishes he has received throughout the game and he is very much looking forward to making his return to his familiar environment at the Hamish B Allan Stadium.
He added: “The break has been good for me as well, because you don’t realise how much you miss the banter in the dressing room, the laughs and carry-on, it’s an eye-opener.
“It felt really good to be so welcomed back, because everybody has been so nice and so generous with the words that have been put about for me – it’s a wee bit overwhelming, actually.
“There were a lot of good words from everybody, and it really is humbling when so many people seem to care how your health is.
“So I would like to put out there a massive thanks to everybody who had wished me the best, who showed so much kindness to my family and my wife.”