Kilmarnock manager Derek McInnes has addressed transfer speculation surrounding David Watson and called for a response from his squad after a heavy 3-0 defeat to Celtic. The BBC reported McInnes's comments one day ago, following a difficult afternoon at Celtic Park where the Ayrshire side conceded three first-half goals and had a penalty saved by Joe Hart.
What happened in the defeat to Celtic?
The match at Celtic Park proved a stern test for Kilmarnock. Celtic established a commanding lead with three goals before the interval. Kilmarnock's attempts to get back into the game were hampered when they had a spot-kick saved by Celtic goalkeeper Joe Hart. The visitors' challenges were compounded by a red card shown to Liam Donnelly, who received a second yellow card. Forward Marley Watkins was substituted at half-time due to a hamstring issue, making him a doubt for the upcoming fixture.
What is the injury and suspension situation?
Kilmarnock face St Mirren this Saturday with several key players unavailable. Striker Kyle Vassell is sidelined with a calf injury, while defender Corrie Ndaba serves a one-match suspension. The potential absence of Marley Watkins adds to the selection headache for McInnes. These absences come at a testing time, with the team currently sitting 12th in the Premiership with zero points from three games, having scored four goals but conceded thirteen. You can track the latest availability on our dedicated injuries page.
What did Derek McInnes say about David Watson?
Midfielder David Watson has been linked with a move away from Rugby Park, with reports from the BBC identifying him as a target for Celtic and clubs in England for a substantial fee. Manager Derek McInnes was clear about the club's position. "We're not under any pressure to sell," McInnes said. "We'll decide what's best for Kilmarnock and what's best for the player." This stance underscores the club's intent to control their own destiny in the transfer market, despite their difficult start to the campaign which sees them nine points behind leaders Celtic.
What is at stake against St Mirren?
This weekend's game at Rugby Park carries significant weight in the early Premiership standings. Kilmarnock, currently in 12th place, host St Mirren who sit one place and one point behind them in 13th. However, Kilmarnock hold a game in hand. The match represents a critical opportunity to halt a run of three consecutive defeats and gain ground in a tightly packed section of the standings. A positive result is vital for morale and for climbing away from the bottom of the table.
Looking beyond this weekend, Kilmarnock's next scheduled fixture is a home match against Falkirk on December 30th. Building momentum before that encounter will be essential. The team's immediate focus, however, is solely on delivering a performance and result against St Mirren to turn their season around. Fans can follow the team's progress and view the full schedule on our fixtures list.
