BY IAIN COLLIN – @CCP_Sport
Raith Rovers manager Ray McKinnon admits Jon Daly will prove ‘almost impossible to replace’ but has confessed the striker’s move into coaching with Hearts was a ‘great opportunity’.
McKinnon had been working behind the scenes to try and secure the former Dundee United and Rangers marksman on a deal for the remainder of the season after initially recruiting him until January.
However, with Daly having accepted the offer to become Hearts’ new under-20s coach in the New Year, the Rovers boss will now have to spend the forthcoming weeks trying to identify someone who can step into the boots of the 32-year-old.
He knows that will prove a thankless task, but fully understands the Irishman’s decision to make the switch to Tynecastle and is determined Rovers will move on themselves when the time comes.
He said: “It is good for Jon and is the next step in his career.
“We are obviously disappointed to be losing someone of his calibre. He is someone we are going to find almost impossible to replace.
“We were very fortunate to get him but the fact he is leaving is going to leave a massive whole in our squad.
“However, it is a great opportunity for him going to a very good club and it will be a great place for him to learn in this next stage of his career.
“He assured me he will be honouring his contract at Raith and I expect him to do that.
“We wish Jon all the best but it is also a chance for some of the good younger players we have at the club to step up when he does leave.”
@IainCollin
