Ayr United winger Kenzie Mitchell has made a significant impact during pre-season, scoring his first senior goal in a 2-0 victory and earning the Man of the Match award. The 18-year-old, however, remains grounded, emphasizing his commitment to hard work and consistency after a challenging previous season.
Clean Living and Focus
Mitchell, who does not drink alcohol, admitted that his Man of the Match champagne would go straight to his mother. He told the Ayrshire Post: "I know I have to keep working hard if I want to make progress. The thing that let me down last year was a lack of consistency and I knew I had to improve on that."
Despite only two weeks off during the summer due to a loan spell at Auchinleck Talbot, Mitchell remained dedicated. He said: "I went to Magaluf with my pals but it probably wasn't the right holiday for me being that I don't drink! I just want to stay focused on my football, even if it means I get pelters on nights out."
Loan Spell at Auchinleck Talbot
Mitchell credited his loan at Talbot under manager Tommy Sloan for building his physicality and confidence. "It really helped me going out on loan to Talbot because I learned a lot there, particularly on the physical side of the game. You don't really get that with Academy football, where the focus is far more technical," he explained.
He added: "Tommy Sloan is a great manager at Talbot because he's so experienced and gives you the freedom to take control of your own game. He's really honest with you and just lets you get on with it from there. So being there really built me up as a player and gave me the confidence to come back here."
Impressing New Manager
Mitchell's performances have caught the eye of new Ayr United boss Gary Naysmith, who has praised his early impact in friendlies and the Premier Sports Cup campaign. The youngster aims to maintain his form and secure a regular spot in the first team.
