East Kilbride manager Mick Kennedy has confirmed the permanent signing of former Celtic defender Andrew Kyle, making him the club's 10th addition of the summer transfer window. Kyle, who spent the second half of last season on loan at K-Park, played a key role in helping Kilby secure the League Two title in May.
Kennedy reveals pursuit of top target
Kennedy told Lanarkshire Live Sport that Kyle was his number one target for the left-back position. “This is something we have been working on over the summer months but Andrew wanted to explore full-time opportunities first,” he said. “We eventually got to the position where East Kilbride is the best place for him to be now after leaving Celtic.”
The manager admitted there were moments when the deal seemed unlikely. “There were a few moments where it looked like it wouldn’t happen, but we held off a little bit because we were always hopeful we would get it over the line,” he added.
Praise for Kyle’s qualities
Kennedy highlighted the defender’s technical ability and athleticism. “He is technically very gifted, having been at Celtic. He has great athleticism, power and he’s an exceptional talent,” he said. “I think he has a real chance and the next year is really important for him in the next stage of his career. If he does as well as I expect him to, he will have many suitors next season.”
Club’s younger recruiting model
The East Kilbride boss explained that the club is shifting towards a younger recruiting model. “As my time progressed here at the club, we have moved to a younger recruiting model and that will be the model moving forward,” Kennedy said. “We want to play a positive role in progressing young players’ careers, where we can both benefit from that.”
More signings expected
With 10 players already signed, Kennedy expects at least five more arrivals. “We have 10 and we probably need another five or so,” he said. “We want a goalkeeper, maybe another winger, a couple of centre forwards and a centre half. If we get those, I’d be delighted.”
He added that the club is taking a patient approach to the market. “We’ve given ourselves a bit of breathing space to see how the market develops with clubs now back for pre-season. It will evolve over the next few weeks but we are pretty happy with where we are at this stage.”
