McCann on 'huge game', not a 'defining moment' & never doubting his squad

Yahoo Sports18h ago2 min readOriginal source →

TL;DR

Kilmarnock manager Neil McCann is optimistic ahead of the crucial away match against St Mirren, emphasizing the team's recent strong performance. He believes the game is a significant opportunity rather than a defining moment for the squad.

Key points

Kilmarnock manager Neil McCann is optimistic about the team's performance.
The upcoming match against St Mirren is crucial for avoiding relegation play-offs.
Kilmarnock has sold out the away end for the game.

KilmarnockSt MirrenKieran WrightKelle Roos

Kilmarnock manager Neil McCann has been speaking with the media before the crucial trip to face St Mirren on Saturday with both clubs looking to avoid a relegation play-off.

McCann is "absolutely delighted with how the team have been performing" having moved out of the play-off spot and above St Mirren with a 3-0 home win over Dundee United last weekend.
On away form being nowhere near as strong as at home, he says: "Saturday brings a brilliant opportunity to lay that to rest in what is a huge game."
McCann insists he is "proud they've managed to get themselves into a position where it's completely in their hands," adding that he thinks "a lot of people doubted that dressing room" and "they're doing it in a style that I think our fans have completely engaged with".
McCann says he never doubted his squad: "What I watched was a team underperforming that I could have an impact on."
On the challenge they face away to St Mirren, McCann says: "They're a really good side. You can see there's a bit of fighting spirit there."
Kilmarnock have sold out the away end for the game and McCann insists there is "nothing to be frightened of". He is seeking a "proper 100% performance" where Killie "take risks and try and win".
He adds: "Whether we win or lose, I don't see it as a defining moment. I see it as a big opportunity for us and a big chance to go and show that we're a good side and we'll aim to try and win the game."
Goalkeeper Kieran Wright remains on emergency loan from Rangers with Kelle Roos unlikely to be fit having sustained a head knock. Brad Lyons is back in contention after injury while Jamie Brandon remains unavailable.

Q&A

What did Neil McCann say about Kilmarnock's recent performance?

Neil McCann expressed that he is 'absolutely delighted' with the team's performance, especially after their 3-0 win over Dundee United.

How important is the upcoming match against St Mirren for Kilmarnock?

The match is crucial as both teams are looking to avoid relegation play-offs, making it a significant opportunity for Kilmarnock to secure their position.

What is the status of Kilmarnock's players ahead of the match?

Goalkeeper Kieran Wright is on emergency loan, Kelle Roos is unlikely to play due to injury, while Brad Lyons is back in contention after recovering from injury.