East Kilbride manager Kevin Rutkiewicz says his Kilby players are playing for their futures - but not necessarily with him.
The former Stirling Albion boss was appointed EK's new gaffer last month following the surprise departure of Chris Aitken.
He's now had a chance to assess his new team in two matches, a 2-0 South Challenge Cup defeat to Sauchie Juniors and a 1-1 Lowland League draw with Berwick Rangers.
A trip to Bo'ness United awaits Rutkiewicz this afternoon and despite Bonnyrigg Rose having already wrapped up the title and a shot to move up to SPFL level, he believes there's much at stake.
Players need to prove they are worth their next deal, at whichever club that may be.
The 41-year-old said: "There's a lot to play for, whether they are playing for contracts here or looking to put themselves in the shop window. That never stops in football.
"You are always judged. There is always somebody watching you. It's no different a position compared to the situation the players were in a few weeks ago.
"They are playing for futures, and that doesn't necessarily need to be at East Kilbride. But you still want to be at the highest level you can be.
"So that is the challenge we are throwing at them. To be fair to them, they have been excellent, there's been no whiff of them not trying.
"Sauchie was an off day and just not a lot went right for the boys or the staff. Berwick Rangers was night and day, and was certainly more aligned to what we are looking for.
"The players are good and put a demand on themselves, which comes from the good job that was done here before I and Bill Orr (his assistant) arrived. We have a good group."
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