JEFFERIES SUSPECTS FOWL PLAY

KILLIE boss Jim Jefferies shot down reports linking James Fowler with Celtic and joked it must be non-league side FARSLEY Celtic who want him.

The Rugby Park midfielder has been linked with Gordon Strachan's side as a possible replacement for Neil Lennon.

Jefferies insists he's heard nothing but isn't surprised major clubs are taking note of Fowler's performances.

The Killie anchorman has been outstanding this season and Jefferies praised his display in yesterday's draw with Hearts.

He said: "I've told James it must be Farsley Celtic who are in for him. I had a good laugh with the lad yesterday morning.

"But seriously I'm not surprised clubs are looking at him because he's been fantastic for me over the last few seasons.

"Since he's moved into midfield he's been exceptional. He doesn't get the plaudits he deserves but he's been so consistent for us.

"He only declared himself fit for the Hearts game in the morning because he's been struggling with a cold.

"He wasn't 100 per cent and I was worried about him going up against Paul Hartley.

"But James covered him all over the pitch and he was excellent for us again."

Jefferies admits a draw was a fair result against the Jambos as his side were missing several first-team regulars.

Valdas Ivanauskas' side could have won it near the end and the Killie gaffer wasn't too disheartened with a point.

He said: "They created chances from our mistakes but we had plenty of the game.

"Gary Wales' shot at the end looked like it was going in and I was just waiting for it hitting the back of the net.

"It was never going to be a day for nice football against a very physical side but I was pleased with the way we battled.

"We were without a lot of players. Fowler and Invincibile have a virus and just made it, Colin Nish and Alan Combe are in bed ill and even our physio was sent home this morning!

"We had a lot of kids on the bench so I have to be happy with the point.

"Of course I've got plans to bring people to the club in January but whether they work out or not is another thing.

"It's a difficult time to get players with our tight budget."

Taken from the Sunday Mail