Eamonn can fill Boydy’s boots but he won’t fill his jersey
CONNAH’S QUAY v KILLIE, ANTHONY HAGGERTY
GARY DICKER is sure laidback Eamonn Brophy can handle taking over a Kilmarnock legend’s shirt – even if it won’t fit him.
Brophy has been handed the No.9 jersey that used to be worn with distinction by Kris Boyd who hung up his boots in the summer.
And the Rugby Park skipper has no fears the prospect will be too much for the young striker – as one thing he doesn’t lack is self-confidence.
Dicker said: “There’s always pressure on attacking players, I’m sure Brophs is used to that now.
“He’s got the No.9 jersey now although the shirt’s a bit smaller than it was last season!
“I’m sure he knows the pressure of being a No.9. Whether you’re at Kilmarnock or Man United the pressure is on to score goals. a.haggerty@dailyrecord.co.uk Brophy doesn’t let that much faze him. He’s not the most intelligent but that probably works in his favour. “Making your debut for Scotland most players would’ve been a nervous wreck but knowing Eamonn he was probably chilled out relaxing – he probably forgot he was actually starting against Cyprus. “His record since he’s come here has been really good. He’s got better as he’s played more so he’s developing. He was brilliant for us last season.” Kilmarnock will make their long-awaited return to the European stage for the first time in 18 years as Angelo Alessio’s side take on Connah’s Quay in the Europa League first qualifier first leg.
The tiny ground in Rhyl holds just 1464 supporters with Kilmarnock given 802 tickets.
But Dicker dismissed all talk of the Premiership side being overwhelming favourites as last season’s Irn-Bru Cup runners-up are in the Europa League for the fourth consecutive season with many of the Killie boys sampling European football for the first time.
He said: “I wouldn’t go as far as to say we’re massive favourites as they play in Europe more than us.
“It’s a tough game and you have to respect them. We’ll just concentrate on this game and not worry about being favourites.
“If you get too ahead of yourself in football you get a nice slap in the face. We’re just treating it like any other game. We respect everyone.
“But we’re not getting ahead of ourselves. We know this will be a really tough game.
“We’re going to respect them and try to win the game but sometimes pre-season can be a leveller.”
Connah’s Quay boss Andy Morrison reckons it’s vital the Welsh side keep a clean sheet at home in order to ensure the tie is still alive when they head to Rugby Park next week.
Morrison said: “It’s so important we leave with nil against us in the first leg because I believe we’ve got a goal in us.
“I always believe that our set-plays will create an opportunity to score.”