Chris Aitken is ready to use the pain of his East Kilbride exit as fuel to transform Kilwinning Rangers’ fortunes.
That’s the view of Kilwinning ace and ex-Kilby star Chris Millar who is convinced the new Buffs gaffer is the right man to save the club from relegation.
Aitken ended an 11-month break from the game when he was unveiled as David Gormley’s successor on Friday.
He maintained a watching brief 24 hours later as Kilwinning – with Millar in caretaker charge – lost 3-2 at home to Beith in the WoSFL Premier Division.
It’s Aitken’s first step back into management since his surprise sacking at East Kilbride last March.
And while the new gaffer couldn’t speak to Ayrshire Football News, Millar was happy to lift the lid on what fans can expect from the 43-year-old former Ayr United ace.
He said: “I spoke to Chris before the game and it hurt him what happened at East Kilbride.
“When he got sacked it was a disgrace. We were second in the league, we went on to win the cup and then he left and the new manager came in.
“He’s had some time out but he’s got the hunger back and he’s ready to go. Hopefully the Buffs can reap the rewards for it.
“He’s a brilliant man-manager and a great motivator. He’s played the game at a high level and he’ll demand standards.
“He’s somebody I enjoyed working with so I was delighted when he got the role.
“I’d actually text him when the job became available because I knew he’d be a good fit for the club.
“The boy will buzz off him. I think he’s exactly what we need right now.”
Kilwinning chairman Colin Evans said Aitken was the standout candidate for the role.
He added: “Chris made a good impression to the management committee and gave solutions to improve the football results at the club.
“Everyone at the club will give Chris all the support he needs for the immediate position we find ourselves in and the long term project at the club.”
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