Derek: SFA need Clarke

said I was making a sideways step, from Celtic’s U23s to Newcastle’s U23s.

“But I always believe in myself and felt that if I performed I’d get a chance.

“The FA Cup game came up and I’m thankful to Benitez for playing me. I performed well and didn’t let anyone down.

“No matter what happens, no one will ever be able to take it away from me.”

He has nailed the left-back position in Clarke’s team who have only lost once since he took over. And even with the second best team in the country visiting Ayrshire today, Findlay says Killie fear no one.

He said: “It’s an exciting time at Kilmarnock having gone to Ibrox and Parkhead and picked up good results.

“Even under the old gaffer we never went into games thinking we’d get beat.

“But we now have added belief that if we stick to the system and trust the way we play, we can beat anyone.” Derek McInnes admits he’s at a loss as to why Kilmarnock gaffer Steve Clarke hasn’t been considered as a potential Scotland manager.

The SFA are still looking for Gordon Strachan’s replacement and Northern Ireland gaffer Michael O’Neill seems to be their top target.

Aberdeen boss McInnes and Clarke go head to head today at Rugby Park with Killie having lost once in five games since Clarke replaced Lee McCulloch.

McInnes said: “Kilmarnock did very well to get Steve Clarke as manager as he is of real stature. It’s a brilliant appointment.

“He worked for some top clubs and when the Scotland job came up I thought he might get it, such is the regard I have for him.

“You can see the response that has had already with some good performances and for that reason this game will provide us with an even tougher challenge.

“We will be put to the test but we have a good record against Kilmarnock and we aim to go down and win the match.”

Dons boss McInnes insists Clarke’s return north of the border as Kilmarnock gaffer underlines that the game here is in good shape.

He said: “We are quick to knock the game up here but there are some good clubs in Scotland.

“That’s why it is good to see the quality of managers who are willing to come here. Brendan Rodgers is the highest in terms of profile but there are others that have done well.”