BY DARREN JOHNSTONE – Capital City Press
Jon Daly has revealed how he refused to go back on his word to Raith Rovers manager Ray McKinnon after Hibs made a last-ditch bid to sign the former Rangers striker.
Just hours after verbally agreeing to join the Stark’s Park club over a coffee with McKinnon on Sunday, Championship rivals Hibs got in touch to enquire about the 32-year-old’s services.
Despite friends urging Daly, who has signed a contract until January, to move to Easter Road, the Irishman admits he did not want to break his promise to McKinnon.
Daly, who made his Raith debut as second half substitute in Tuesday’s 2-1 League Cup win over Hamilton, said: “I spoke to Ray and shook his hand on the Sunday to agree to come here, and I got a phone call late Sunday night to say they (Hibs) were interested.
“I wasn’t going to go back on my word. I spoke to Ray and shook his hand, I agreed to come here and I’m delighted I have.
“A lot of my friends were saying ‘you need to look after yourself’ but the money didn’t come into it, it was about getting games.
“When I spoke to Ray I wanted to come and play for him. He talks about the game really well and you can see he has the passion for the game.
“I’ve known him for a while now and I was impressed with what he did with Brechin as well. I was impressed with how Raith have started the season too.
“It’s a chance to get games under my belt and when January comes we’ll see what happens then.”
Daly was delighted to get back on the pitch on Tuesday after falling out of favour under then Rangers manager Stuart McCall at the end of last season.
He added: “I had a look earlier and March 17 was my last match, St Partick’s Day. It’s been a while coming and it’s been a frustrating few months.
“It was frustrating, especially towards the end of last season when you’re training everyday and fighting fit.
“The team wasn’t firing and you’re wanting to help but not getting the opportunity.
“That’s football, sometimes you fall out of favour with managers and you just need to get on with it.
“I’ve just worked hard, I’ve been very fortunate to be able to train with Dundee United but it’s not the same as playing.”
ends
