Frank exchange was just what Killie needed
Stephen O’Donnell credits a frank and honest dressingroom discussion last month for the recent upturn in Kilmarnock’s fortunes.
And the Scotland defender admitted that he was one of those getting it in the neck!
The Rugby Park side head into today’s home game against Hibs on a brilliant run of form, having won three and drawn one of their last four matches, including Wednesday night’s stunning victory over Rangers.
But it was a different story before then as Alex Dyer’s men hit a slump. It came to a head following the defeat to St Johnstone in late January and O’Donnell admits there were a few harsh words exchanged.
He said: “After that game, we were in danger of being dragged into a relegation fight. And there were a few words said afterwards.
“I was getting slaughtered! But it was important to clear the air. Under the old manager (Angelo Alessio) that was taken away a wee bit. It got to the point that we couldn’t really say much – it was just a different style.
“But conversations were had, and it came from a place of caring and wanting to win.
“Thankfully there was a great reaction from the staff and the players. And, hopefully, the fans will start to come back and we can make this place a fortress again.
“We now have a massive game coming up and we’ll be looking for another win.”
O’Donnell admits that St Johnstone game was nearly his last in a Killie shirt. Oxford United wanted to sign him in the closing days of the window and he was tempted. But he decided to put his family and Scotland career first.
He explained: “There was a big possibility of me going.
“But we’ve just had a baby and I wasn’t sure it was the right move for my family. And then you add in Scotland.
“Playing in League One, I’d be further away from it all. And I want to still be part of the gaffer’s squads.
“I gave that move a lot of thought but it just didn’t feel like the right call for me at this time.”
The 27-year-old is out of contract in the summer and admits he could well move on at that point.
O’Donnell added: “I’d love to win something. So if I could go somewhere where that would be a possibility, then great.
“Come the summer, I hope I’ve got decisions to make and one of them is to stay with Kilmarnock. Then I’ll make what I think is the right one.
“But for now I’m just focusing on hopefully getting Kilmarnock back into the top six and playing well.”
O’Donnell is also desperate to see Jackie McNamara make a full recovery from a brain op, having worked under him at Partick Thistle.
He said: “Jackie was a massive influence on me at Thistle. I hope he’s going to make a full and speedy recovery. He is in my thoughts and prayers.”