Locke talks up bigger top flight
IT’S Championship v Premiership in today’s Scottish Cup clash between Raith Rovers and Hearts.
But Rovers boss Gary Locke reckons both clubs could comfortably co-exist in an expanded top flight.
Ex-Hearts and Kilmarnock gaffer Locke has been blown away by the standard of Championship sides since taking charge at Stark’s Park in May.
His play-off hopefuls got the better of Ross County in the League Cup back in July, while Dundee United, Morton and Ayr United have also seen off Premiership opposition.
As a result, Locke has no doubt the Premiership – and Scottish football at large – would benefit from an injection of Championship talent.
“There’s a competitiveness about Championship clubs. I’ve been really impressed with the standard,” said Locke.
“It’s not for me to say how to run the game in Scotland, but there’s certainly scope for a bigger Premiership.
“I was at the Falkirk v Dunfermline game on Boxing Day and there was a great crowd at that game. Us against Dunfermline, too – brilliant crowd.
“Hibs v Dundee United had 18,000. You’re not trying to tell me that Scottish football can afford to do without that at the top level.
“There were two Championship clubs in the Cup Final last year, too. So I’d love to see a bigger league.
“When you’ve got all the derbies – the Old Firm, Hearts v Hibs, Dundee v Dundee United, Raith Rovers v Dunfermline, Falkirk v Dunfermline – they’re all great games.
“The more we have like that in the top flight, the better.”
An impressive start to the season has petered out for Locke’s side over the last three months.
Nevertheless, Rovers remain within sniping distance of the play-off places – and with a game in hand over fourth-placed Falkirk.
Finishing in the top four is still Locke’s main target.
And the 41-year-old, who has endured more than his fair share of troubles during his short managerial career, hopes Cup success can spur his side on.
“Every job I’ve had has certainly had its problems,” admitted Locke.
“Hearts was incredible, Kilmarnock had one or two, and there are challenges here too, though they are nothing to do with the running of the club.
“But look at Pep Guardiola – even at his level he’s having problems!
“It would certainly be nice to manage a team where you’re not worrying constantly about finances and balancing the books.
“But I really enjoy it here. It’s a great club to work for.”