David Watson hopes to follow in the footsteps of Derek McInnes and become a midfield star.
The Kilmarnock teenager is delighted to have McInnes as the main man at Rugby Park.
Central midfield operator Watson is learning plenty from his boss who started a 20-year playing career at Morton before turning out for the likes of Rangers, Bristol City and Dundee United.
McInnes has already seen potential in the 17-year-old. He handed Watson his first start in the 3-0 League Cup group victory at Montrose in July.
And he then came off the bench during the 4-1 cup success at home to Stenhousemuir before playing two SPFL Trust Trophy ties for Kilmarnock B.
Watson is simply taking everything in and believes the appointment of McInnes at the beginning of this year will play a key role in developing his game.
He said: “It’s been good getting to work with the gaffer – obviously he’s really experienced in the Scottish game and done well with Aberdeen.
“I think he has been good for me. He’s always talking to me and helping me out; pointing me in the right direction on things.
“He played the same position as me so he knows where I need to get better and improve.
“The manager has given me the platform and the tools to work with and I just have to keep working hard and become a better player.
“I’m trying my best to break through. Training with the experienced players is helping me but I’m still getting 90 minutes at the end of the week with the Under-18s so really happy.
“The likes of Alan Power have also been good for me as they play in my position and have lots of experience playing in the Premiership.”
Watson made his Kilmarnock debut last season under ex-boss Tommy Wright – coming on as a substitute in the 3-1 SPFL Trust Trophy triumph at home to Falkirk.
“I didn’t expect it,” he recalled. “It wasn’t real. I didn’t have a contract until I signed the day before the game against Falkirk when I was on the bench. It was a surprise.
“I was delighted to be offered a professional contract. All I’ve ever wanted was to be a footballer. It was the best news of my life.
“I’ve sacrified a lot and put so much into this so it was nice to get a little reward at the end of it.
“My mum played football for Scotland and coached my boys’ club while my dad played Junior football. I’ve just always been around and involved in the game.
“I started at Caledonian in Prestwick and then got picked up by Killie when I was six or seven. I trained with them until I was 10 when I signed my first form.
“I’ve learned a lot over the years coming through the academy – I’ve played with a lot of different boys and played under a lot of coaches.
“Of course, I’m still learning but I’ve done most of my learning this year training with the first team.”
Watson, who is signed until the end of the season, still lives in Prestwick – but it’s fair to say Rugby Park has become a home from home.
“I’m only 20 minutes down the road so it’s local and I’ve always enjoyed playing here,” he added.
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