Ayr United boss Mark Roberts wants to watch from the sidelines

Jan 4 2013 by Mike Wilson, Ayrshire Post

Mark Roberts insists Ayr’s classy youngsters can keep him on the sidelines.

The player-boss, 37, admits: “It’s probably time for me to sit out. I’m getting to the stage where the old legs have gone.

“The brain and touch are still there but the game is quicker and players are a lot fitter.

“I’ll not call it a day just yet but I’ll definitely stay on the sidelines for a wee while and hope the guys can do it for me.”

Teenagers Robbie Crawford, Kyle McAusland, Darren McGill and Darren Brownlie all started Saturday’s 0-0 draw against Alloa.

And the bench was full of kids with Mark Shankland and Ross Robertson both coming on.

Roberts insists: “Only the results have been not what they should be recently but the club is going in the right direction when it comes to youth.

“Over the next two or three years we’ll be in a better position because these youngsters are getting a chance now.”

Ayr had former Rangers youngster Michael Donald on the bench as a trialist against Alloa.

Ayr were due to host runaway leaders Queen of the South on Wednesday (3pm) before heading to Stranraer on Saturday.

They’re gunning for revenge after losing 2-0 at Stair Park in September.

Former Cumnock boss Stevie Farrell was recently appointed number two at Stranraer.