Mcculloch challenges Hawkshaw to earn deal

Lee Mcculloch wants Dean Hawkshaw to prove he is worth both a place in the Kilmarnock side and a new deal. Hawkshaw made his Killie breakthrough last term but was made to wait until last Saturday’s draw at Aberdeen to force his way back into action this season.

Kilmarnock boss Mcculloch rates the 20-year-old highly but says he needs to see more consistency from the midfielder.

Now he has laid down the challenge to Hawkshaw by declaring he can win a fresh contract if he is able to hold on to his first-team slot.

“Dean has done great,” said Mcculloch. “He was out of the team at the start of this season but has been around the first team for a few years now.

“I’ve been emphasising to him now that he really does need to kick on and cement a place in the first team. He’s agreed with that. He’s a willing worker who has a great attitude.

“He’s out of contract at the end of the season and I’ve laid down a marker to him that he needs to earn himself a new deal.

“I haven’t been reluctant to put him in the team but there were a few lads ahead of him at the start of the season – but he’s overtaken them now.

“He’s earned his place in the squad so far and I’ve told him it shouldn’t be up to me to pick him in the team – he can pick himself by fulfilling his potential.”

Kilmarnock host Dundee today and the visitors will be without captain Darren O’dea, who is suspended.

Fellow centre-backs Josh Meekings and Julen Etxabeguren will be given more match action before they return to the first team.

Marcus Haber has an ankle injury and Sofien Moussa’s fitness will also be assessed after suffering a knock but, otherwise, Dundee have no injury worries.

For Kilmarnock, Mcculloch hopes Iain Wilson can overcome a knee injury.

Defender Wilson had to limp off during last week’s draw at Aberdeen.