UNSPORTING BEHAVIOUR
Watkins desperate for proper shot at Europa after Covid KO’d Lisbon glory
MARLEY WATKINS shared a pitch with some of the continent’s top players on his last trip into European football.
But the Kilmarnock striker still reckons it felt a bit second rate.
Watkins was leading the line for Derek McInnes’ Aberdeen when they saw off NSI Runavik and Viking Stavanger to set up a shot at Portuguese giants Sporting.
But despite the Lisbon side containing Man City star Nunes, Spurs’ Pedro Porres and PSG ace Nuno Mendes, the magic of the occasion was ruined by the empty Joe Alvalade Stadium due to Covid restrictions.
Four years on and Watkins could be heading back into European action with McInnes – if he can agree a new deal at Rugby Park.
And the 33-year-old, who also qualified with Inverness only to leave the Highlands before their Euro venture began, said: “At Aberdeen we had Sporting away but there was no crowd. It would have been a great atmosphere.
“We only lost 1-0 and we had chances. They were a top team on the ball and we had to capitalise on our chances but didn’t quite manage that.
“It will be better with the fans in. That’s what makes football. It’s my third time getting into Europe in Scotland. It will be exciting for everyone involved.”
Watkins and Killie remain in talks over extending his stay and he said: “I’m hoping to stay. I’m at a club where I’m enjoying my football, you always want to feel appreciated where you play.
“Obviously you want to play at the best level possible and Europe is a good level and very exciting.
“It’s definitely a factor. I want to try and achieve stuff wherever I play so it’s very important.”
Killie can secure fourth with a win over St Mirren today and Watkins reckons the achievement, just two years after the club were in the Championship, speaks volumes for McInnes’ management. He said: “He’s one of the best I’ve played for. Everyone who plays under him says the same.
“His man-management, the way he sets us up, the professionalism of the whole building and the standards he sets.
“He’s been great on a human level as well. He looks after you off the pitch in terms of your happiness.
“He’s a great gaffer but also a great human being.
“He’s had a great career as a player and a manager. That’s from his discipline and standards and his ambition. He’s done great in life and he’s still doing it.”
Watkins has hit a career best 13 goals this season but reckons he can still do better.
He said: “I had injuries but I knew I would deliver when I got rhythm back.
“Wherever I am, if I play regularly then I play well.
“I believe in myself so it’s not a surprise to me although I’ve seen some say I was signed as a squad player. Not in my head. I’ve tried to be one of the main men.
“I just want to be here again next season. And if I was on pens I’d have a couple more! That’s what I’m going to be judged on going forward so I need to make sure I’m always delivering.”