Ayr United star Ryan McCann hails team-mate Scott McLaughlin

Jan 14 2011 by Mike WIlson, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

AN SPL player in hiding - that's Ayr midfielder Scott McLaughlin.

Team-mate Ryan McCann reckons it's only a matter of time before McLaughlin's playing in the top flight.

McCann said: "There are boys playing in the First Division who could easily be playing in the SPL and Scott is one of them.

"He is a fantastic football player - he shouldn't be here. I still don't know which is his preferred foot."

McCann revealed he was ready to try the juniors until boss Brian Reid came calling with a contract.

He said: "Going part-time for me was the only option but I couldn't find anything. One and half seasons ago I was playing League Two in England which some people say is on a par with the SPL.

"Then suddenly there was nothing for me. There were junior teams looking at me and it was a bit of a shock."

McCann confessed he made a 'pig's ear' of a golden chance to fire Ayr ahead after seizing on a wayward passback.

He said: "I couldn't even tell you if I was in front of goal or to the side of it but apparently it was the front. Nine times out of ten I would have scored."

McCann admits he can't wait for the replay. He said: "I've not being fortunate enough to play at Somerset when it is nearly full. The boys go on about the Alex Williams goal in a 2-2 draw against Kilmarnock and said it was a great atmosphere.

"We stuck to our game plan at Easter Road and if we had nicked it we would have deserved it.

“Hibs have some great players but we are still in there and you never know what can happen in the replay."