Andy McLaren: I can help Ayr up

Apr 2 2008 Ayrshire Post

ANDY McLAREN insists Ayr United’s promotion dream is still alive — and he’s itching to play a part.

McLaren made a shock return after seven months out injured when he came on for the closing stages of last weekend’s 2-1 win at Alloa, the fifth away victory on the trot.

And he revealed he’s eager to play on at Ayr next season if the club wants him. McLaren said: “I was as shocked as anyone when the gaffer asked me if I would sit on the bench because he was down to the bare bones.

“I thought I might get a run for the last five minutes but when we went 2-0 up I was moaning the face off him to get on.

“My first touch was a 50:50 which was great because after a long time out with a bad injury they always say the first tackle is the most important.

“I came through it OK but I was annoyed at myself for being involved in their goal although I felt I was fouled.”

McLaren insists Ayr can still pull off the impossible but says they must win their remaining four games.

He said: “There is even talk that fifth place could be good enough if Gretna go bust so we must keep pushing on.

“I have said to the players since I did my cruciate ligament last August that they had to keep us in it so I could come back and help us reach the play-offs.

“Now I am back a month ahead of the doctor’s schedule and although I’m not yet ready to play 90 minutes I can still play a part from the bench.

“It’s just a pity we didn’t beat Cowdenbeath a fortnight ago otherwise we would now only be three points off fourth top instead of five.

“However, I am just delighted to be back playing and looking forward to getting myself fully fit in the summer.

“I get on well with both the gaffer and Scott MacKenzie and like it at Ayr although we should be much higher up the league.

“We haven’t discussed anything yet for next season but unless Manchester United come calling, I would be happy to stay here and play my part.

“Sitting on the sidelines has been terrible and I have really missed playing which is why I am keen to keep going as long as possible.

“Without being big headed, I think I could have really helped the team this season with my experience and I’d like to believe we would have been higher up the table if I had stayed fit.”