SPORT / FOOTBALL
The role played by Alan Stubbsinjonjoekenny’sdevelopment has been described as “huge” by the new Celtic loanee.
In an exclusive interview with the Scotsman this week, former Celtic defender Stubbs said his old club’s capture of the 23-year-old on a six-month loan deal from Everton was a real “coup”.
The former Hibs manager also insisted ”absolute diamond” Kenny was the most enjoyable player he coached when the full-back played under him in the Everton reserves between 2013 and 2014.
Kenny, who gushed about how much he “loved” his debut for Neil Lennon’s men after helping them to Tuesday night’s 4-0 win at Kilmarnock, shares similar regard for his former coach.
“I know Stubbsy well. Stubbsy means a lot to me,” said Kenny.
“He put faith in me at a young age to come up and play for the reserves at 16 and I loved playing under him.
"He got the best out of me and helped me on and off the field. He’s one of the best and he’s a top man.
"He played a massive part for me. I’ve had a few [big influences in my career].
"David Unsworth was brilliant, Stubbsy was a massive influence when I was younger and Big Dunc [Duncan Ferguson] as well. He helped me along the way as well. He was a legend for me and a legend at Everton as well.”
Kenny also revealed how much his move north had meant to members of his family.
A cousin posted a picture of himself in Celtic colours as a youngster when Kenny joined on Monday, and the Evertonian said such snaps also exist of him in the same garb.
“My cousin has family from Glasgow who are big Celtic fans. When I was younger, I