Jamie McKim has expressed feelings of disappointment and betrayal after leaving his post at Johnstone Burgh.
The seasoned Keanie Park manager was informed his tenure was over after a 3-2 loss to Kilwinning Rangers in the West of Scotland League First Division game this past Saturday.
Despite Burgh’s current 10th spot on the table – 13 points away from the promotion zones – they do have promising games lined up and are semi-final contenders in the Junior Cup.
Nevertheless, after significant investment, the club’s board resolved that a shift in the training staff was required. McKim, who had served as head for six years, found this quite a bitter pill to swallow.
When he took the reins of Burgh, they were second from last in the Third Division because the club had withdrawn from a Junior Cup game due to lack of players.
McKim, while talking to the Paisley Daily Express, conceded, “I’m massively disheartened and feel somewhat betrayed since I only put pen to paper on a new contract merely six weeks prior.
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“We still had control over the league, we were in the cup’s semi-finals, and key players, including Kyle Lafferty, were returning from injury. This was a crucial time before the semi-finals. I believe I deserved a bit more allegiance from the club, I have dedicated my life to that club.”
“In my view, the more stable clubs are the ones that see success, you can look at “Auchinleck Talbot for example. They’ve had the same manager for 20 years. At the start of the season they struggled, but now are enjoying success.”
“This is no longer the club I originally joined. When I first walked in, we were second from bottom in the Third Division and were short on players for a Scottish Cup game. The turnaround we have achieved, is something I am incredibly proud of.”
Significant excitement surrounded the club in the past summer when external funding allowed Burgh to strategize for the future and boost their squad for a potential promotion.
The noteworthy new arrivals included former Rangers’ ace players Kyle Lafferty and Graham Dorrans. However, it’s worth noting Northern Irish international Lafferty has been out of play since August due to a critical knee injury.
David Hill, McKim’s deputy, along with coaches Bernie McPhee and Davie James, have taken their leave from the club too.
Tommy Montgomery and Ross Wilson will temporarily take the helm when Burgh confront Thorniewood United at Cliftonhill Stadium in Coatbridge, North Lanarkshire this following Wednesday.
“I had a word with everyone on Sunday,” McKim adds. “It was vital to me that the physio, kit man and the right individuals were there for the game on Wednesday. I’m not bitter about this situation and sincerely hope the club goes on to enjoy success in the future.”
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