Live Chat Transcript - Thursday 13th Feb 2003

baz: Okay people, welcome to our first official chat of the season. We will be taking questions for Jim and David alternately (in that order).

samfaecoturn: What is our best formation
Jim_Jefferies: The most successful formation, not necessarily the preferred formation, has been with 3 central defenders with Shields in the middle. The formation depends on who we play.

andy_pandy: David, can children get half price season tickets - under 14 years old that is.
david_heath: Everybody gets buy one get one free. So a 14 year old buys a ticket and gets a voucher for a free one for another non season ticket holding child. Also if you buy a more expensive ticket - say an adult one, then you can get anther adult ticket or a less expensive one free - say for a kid.

marti: Is Peter Canero a good left back?
Jim_Jefferies: He is one of those fortunate players who can play in a number of positions. He scores more from the left sided position and has defended better on left side.

Flood: Is it true that season ticket holders in the East Stand will lose there seats when the half price ticket thing happens next year?
david_heath: As it currently stands we think that open seating is the best way to allow the people pairing up to sit together and also improve the atmosphere. However, as we have done before, if there is a huge groundswell against this we will review it - one option is to put a time limit on when you can get your own seat - e.g. first month of sales.

GodFlesh: Hi. Have you been surprised at how Gary Locke has struggled to make an impact on the team, and was your original intention to make him captain?
Jim_Jefferies: Gary Locke - He has potential to be captain but he has missed a lot of training including pre-season that all players need.

Robbie: What will next seasons strips look like?
david_heath: Next seasons home strip will be a traditional blue and white stripe (blue stripe in the middle) with blue shorts. The away one will be dark blue with sky blue side panels and the red one will also stay.

champs_of_65: What do you think of our chances for getting into Europe?
Jim_Jefferies: Europe - Very good chance - our 1st priority is top 6.

GodFlesh: What steps will be made to keep Andy McLaren at Kilmarnock?
david_heath: Jim is keen to keep McLaren but we have a budget we've agreed and it needs to fit in with that.

andy_pandy: Does Burns ring a bell? Alex that is.
Jim_Jefferies: Burns - I'm as surprised as anyone to read it. Could be journalists playing games before we play Jags.

GodFlesh: As my question about Andy will boil down to money, I'd like to hear DH's views on how far we'll go to keep him.
david_heath: There is an overall budget and it's Jim's decision how much of that he wants to spend on Andy whilst trying to achieve the other things he wants to do with the squad.

KFC_Flecky: Why has Shaun Dillon been dropped completely out of the side? To me he seemed the best talent Killie have seen in a good while.
Jim_Jefferies: Dillon - I agree 100% - my experience with young players tells me you have to take them out and then bring them back in.

Eastenders: Do you see opportunities to use the Hotel for other club and international teams e.g. Germany to boost revenue?
david_heath: We got great reviews from the Irish squad and we have the German Under 21 international game here. Unfortunately we have a wedding party on the Saturday of the game. We're trying to see if the German's plan to check out on the Saturday, otherwise we might not get the room business. Still at least it shows the hotels busy!

Lekovic: We need a new goalie, left sided midfielder & a new target man, does JJ agree?
Jim_Jefferies: I do agree Lekovic, it would be nice to get cover in these positions and we're always looking.

champs_of_65: What are the chances of Killie bringing in some new faces in light of the financial difficulties?
david_heath: There's a limit to the money next year, however Jim has shown he's top notch at moving players in and out so there is no one will do a better job with the budget we have than him.

The_Ref: Where does Stevie Murray fit into Jim's plans?
Jim_Jefferies: Stevie is a victim of our system but he's another young player who will play an important part.

Keenan: I have an idea that may increase the gates at RP for the remainder of the season at least, Introduce a student gate, Giving students a small discount if they show a valid student card. What do you think?
david_heath: Any time I've introduced initiatives for one or a few matches it hasn't worked. I'd prefer to just go heavy with buy one get one free and two student seasons for £175 is great value.

stuart: How highly do you rate Kris Boyd?
Jim_Jefferies: He has the potential to be a very very good player but he has a lot to learn.

marti: Is Killie getting a swimming pool?
david_heath: We are looking at a business plan for a leisure development for two years hence - that would include a pool.

andy_pandy: How do you only sign ex hearts players?
Jim_Jefferies: McLaughlin and Shields are not ex-Hearts, and nobody has complained about Stevie Fulton who has been outstanding.

KFC_Flecky: David, Now the 135 has been introduced how many season ticket holders, realistically, are you hoping for next season?
david_heath: I hope for over 8,000 including the free ones - so that I can stick it to Graham Spiers - did you read The Herald article today?

wimp: It was rumoured during the winter break that Hibs were interested in Dindeleux, was there any approach made for him or was it just speculation?
Jim_Jefferies: I've had no approaches for any Killie player.

mclean07: David, what did you think of Graham Spiers' comments i.e. not a chance of 8000 sales?
david_heath: I think Graham Spiers is funny but a bit to condescending. I called him today and we're meeting week commencing March 3rd to have a discussion which he'll hopefully write up. I'm also going to have a bet with them so you guys better deliver on the season tickets!
GodFlesh: What Graham Spiers knows about KFC you could write on a postage stamp with a crayon. Same goes for most other football writers in this country!

samfaecoturn: Why are we shot shy when we get to the box?
Jim_Jefferies: We go over it time and time again as we have players capable of scoring from distance and we will encourage it more.

Eastenders: Will a percentage of the money received from season tickets go towards buying new players?
david_heath: All the money we get goes towards the squad and other running costs - but I can't afford to say if season tickets increase by 100k that it goes to football - we need to see what happens to walk up revenues.

stuart: Do you think that we should have more than Peter Canero in the future squad?
Jim_Jefferies: Stuart, yes I do. Shields deserves a chance and in the future Boyd as well. Here's an exclusive for you, Colin Meldrum is on standby for the 'future' squad in Turkey next month.

stuart: Are we in the position that in the summer that players will be sold before new ones can come in?
david_heath: There is money over and above our current contractual commitments for next season - whether that goes on renewing existing players or new ones is up to Jim. Plus, wages out equals a new wage budget available.

skydog: Why do we rarely play Canero in his best position, the right side of midfield in my opinion?
Jim_Jefferies: Fowler is doing well in that position and Peter does a good job on the left. He's scored 4 goals on that side so far.

GodFlesh: re: open seat policy. Is one option to pay a premium, say £30, to retain an actual seat or indeed have first pick from a blank layout?
david_heath: That is one option - at the moment we prefer open seating but we'll see what the feedback is over the next few days. Another option is a one month window to get your seat.

Alan_G: Is Freddie still part of your plans, or has Steve Fulton taken over the reigns?
Jim_Jefferies: Freddy is still part of my plans

skydog: Is there going to be a share issue and, if so, when will we hear about it?
david_heath: Some complications with the financial services act and the cost of doing a share issue but we're looking at options including using a supporters trust to do it. Reviewing at board meeting next week but keen to do something.

Susie_Blue: Jim, do you feel there is any need to look at goalies as a possible replacement for Marsh, or will Melly become our long term No. 1?
J_M_B: Do you think Meldrum can retain keepers position?
Jim_Jefferies: Melly will get his chance to establish himself as number 1 that's only fair.

KFC_Flecky: David, Whatever happened to the singing section idea?
david_heath: We got 600 folk said they were interested then only 20 actually did it!

GodFlesh: Ultimately do you see Locke as a midfielder or full-back?
Jim_Jefferies: Not as a full back, he can play in a back 3 but midfield is the preferred position.

mclean07: What about a 16 team Premier League? More chance of holding the Old Firm in one offs and a better variety of teams with maybe a local derby.
david_heath: I like that idea but its an emotive issue - it will be discussed now that SPL is back on track but it needs 10 clubs to carry any change.

fozzy: What about the rumours about Russell Latapy?
Jim_Jefferies: We only offered Latapy training facilities.

samfaecoturn: Would a top league of 16 teams playing twice not be a solution to the seemingly boring premier league?
david_heath: I agree sam - it would mean a loss of 280,000 in Celtic and Rangers gate revenue for us but would probably improve interest - it's a trade off I like but other clubs maybe not - see above on voting.

RayD: Do you feel discipline is lacking in the team, or have we just been unlucky?
Jim_Jefferies: I've not been happy with some silly bookings like dissent that we need to stamp out.

KFC_Flecky: How long does Alan Mahood have left on his contract?
david_heath: Mahood's contract runs to end of next season.

Flood: Do you get annoyed when the press bum up other (inferior teams!) young players such as Aberdeen and Motherwell but basically ignore us?
Jim_Jefferies: It doesn't bother me, our players do the talking on the park.

KB: Do you think the gap will close between the 10 and the Old Firm now that their having financial problems?
david_heath: No I don't - I think the 10 are all cutting back - all it takes is for either to get to the Champion's League group stage and they've got 8 million or the UEFA quarter final and its 3 million - we can't compete.

RayD: Will we beat the yahoos next time we meet? 
Jim_Jefferies: Looking forward to it - if it happens.

Flood: David, have the club ever thought of contacting the people who have not renewed season tickets over the years to see why?
david_heath: Ray wrote to them all this season and we got a few back but with the new offer we'll be writing to 5 years worth of lapsed season ticket holders as well as other initiatives.

Eastenders: Looking ahead to next season are there any positions where you feel we need to look at obtaining players from out with the club e.g. a keeper, to strengthen the squad?
McDeeBop: Are there any hints as to any new faces come the end of the season?
Jim_Jefferies: There's a lot of work going on behind the scenes to improve things for next season.

GodFlesh: Are discussions about re-introducing standing areas to SPL grounds ongoing or dead in the water?
david_heath: I think they're dead in the water - safety of sports ground legislation and consequent SPL rules will make it nearly impossible to change.

RayD: Jim, good evening from S. Florida! How do feel Kilmarnock are faring under your charge...better than or less than expected? What is your long term ambition for the club?
Jim_Jefferies: I'm less than a year in the job with a new team so top 6 is a great achievement - Europe would be out of this world. Long term ambition would be another trophy.

Gareth_Steven: David, what is the current situation regarding funds available for new players and the wage structure at the club?
david_heath: Jim and the board have agreed a budget for next year that is less than this year and Jim also managed with less this year than Bobby did the year before. See answers above also.

The_Ref: Jim, when you and Billy have an argument, who generally comes out on top?
Jim_Jefferies: Me!

dougall: What do you think of the 10,000 seated stadium rule considering how we rarely get that now?
david_heath: I think we'll get close with the new season ticket offer, but also the 10,000 is pretty much enshrined in the rules now.

andy_pandy: Jim, what about Ronaldo?
Jim_Jefferies: Hope to talk to him next week.

KillieKev: I currently always buy two seasons ticket ( one for a relation) how does this new deal affect/benefit me?
david_heath: You will get two free vouchers for non ticket holders - hopefully you can find people to sell / give them to but if not baz and co. are developing a bank of names.

fozzy: Why is it that James Fowler never seems to hit the bye line enough in games. The one time he has done it this season regularly we thrashed Livi.
Jim_Jefferies: One of the main topics at all training - it will get through one day!

KB: Do you think that the other 10 SPL clubs can catch up with the old firm now struggling with massive debts?
Jim_Jefferies: In the coming years teams will get closer to the OF if they stop spending money on big foreign imports

Suz: David, I had no idea that fans were welcomed into a function room at the hotel before the game. Sound like a great idea. Is this happening this Saturday or is there a wedding on?
david_heath: There's a fan's bar in the pre-drinks area which holds about 150 - usually we have the big screen TV on with the English Premiership games - it will be open this Saturday.

Phil: JJ, in your opinion what is the likelihood of Andy McLaren staying with KFC?
Jim_Jefferies: Phil - He wants to stay so hopefully we can agree terms.

knapster: JJ, at the beginning of season we were looking for a target man. Boutal didn't work out. Are we still looking or do you feel we have someone in squad to fulfill that role?
Jim_Jefferies: We are still looking.

fozzy: DH, why do yo u think the atmosphere is so bad at home when we seem to make a lot of noise with far less supporters at away games?
david_heath: I honestly think it's because over time people have been split up and that open seating is the best approach but I know this is a concern to a lot - but away matches tell their own story.

Phil: What is your opinion on the fact that Kris Boyd cannot find a place in the Scotland under 21's yet the likes of Shaun Maloney who is not playing first team football every week still retains his place?
Jim_Jefferies: I agree Boyd will eventually be a part of the under 21 set-up if he continues to progress.

SYMINGTONKFC: Why have none of the players attended the soccer school?
david_heath: I'll discuss this with Jim.

s_strong: Jim, what are your feelings on the home support?
Jim_Jefferies: Fans are entitled to their opinion and they pay their money but we need to get behind the team at home like we do away.

The_Ref: David, what percentage of club income will be generated long term with the increasing popularity of The Park Hotel ?
david_heath: faxing you the 5 year plan ref
david_heath: kidding - hold on!
baz: zzzzz....wake up David.
david_heath: We hope to generate 2.25 million from the hotel in mature state - football revenues about 4.5 - 5.5 depending on cup runs league position etc.

Lekovic: With big Marsh out for the next few weeks don't you think we should blood young Samson into the first team setup or don't you think he's ready yet?
Jim_Jefferies: Samson is not ready yet. Smith and Stewart are further up the pecking order.

THW: What do you think of Thistle as a team and do you, like Steve Paterson, think it's shocking to be beaten of them more than once, depending on Saturday's result of course!
Jim_Jefferies: Thistle are hard working and well organised. They are desperate to stay up but it will be difficult for them next season.

Susie_Blue: Mr. Heath, is there any chance you can fix it for me to be Nutz for one game?
david_heath: Send me an email with your details and we'll arrange a guest appearance!

Phil: Jim do you think that given the rise to fame our young players are having that we can develop as a club enough to hold on to them?
Jim_Jefferies: Clubs like Killie given the financial position in Scottish football cannot turn down big money for players, like most clubs, but we do all we can to hold on to our players.

KFC_Flecky: Naismith and Boyle both score goals, How long before wee see them on the bench?
Jim_Jefferies: Both boys just out of under 16 football, too early just now.

GodFlesh: To both: I'd be interested to hear your views on the 10,000 seat criteria for the SPL. This season especially it is killing two leagues stone dead and is not fair on the paying punter.
david_heath: The regulations are firm on this so id doesn't matter what I think, but I think it will stay (fence sitter!!!)

GodFlesh: I think handing McLaren the captaincy would be the making of him (think Cantona if you will). Comments?
Jim_Jefferies: The job is hard enough without making Andy captain!

Keenan: Do you think Greg Shields is good enough for Scotland?, I do.
Jim_Jefferies: He certainly deserves an opportunity he has been outstanding for us.

KB: Will the club go the full hog to promote 135 season ticket?
david_heath: The full hippo we'll go! Mail shots to all lapsed season ticket for 5 years, big launch day probably March 23rd, possible road shows etc. etc.

Keenan: It was reported that you were interested in bringing in new faces to RP but because of the finance situation this did not happen, can you tell us who they were?
Jim_Jefferies: It would be unfair to name them given their current situations with other clubs.

andy_pandy: Who is first choice captain now?
Jim_Jefferies: I still feel we need a leader on the park and will address it next season.

stuart: Do yo u have any idea how many times Berti Vogts has been at our games this season?
david_heath: About three but Rainer Bonhoff has been at a few more - he was instrumental in us getting the under 21 games here.

zorro: If David let you splash some cash what areas of of the squad would you strengthen?
Jim_Jefferies: Defence, midfield and attack, one in each area.

dougall: Who of our other young players do you expect to play in the first team this season?
Jim_Jefferies: Liam McGuinness, Greg Gilroy has a chance and Fraser Logan as well possibly.

mclean07: Will Kids for a Quid still be running as it affects what stand an adult may choose to buy a season for ?
david_heath: We will drop kids for a quid and encourage a Moffat Stand buy one get one free adult and child non old firm ticket for 270. We may also do a Moffat child buy one get one free.

wimp: Do you think that the crowd are to blame for the poor home performances in that the players a scared of making mistakes?
Jim_Jefferies: Good point, we have one of the best away records in the league but fans are entitled to their opinion.

Flood: What can be done to stop the negative atmosphere at RP as it must affect the players?
Jim_Jefferies: More vocal support and increased attendances would be welcome.

fozzy: Why was the Moffat not a £1 entry fee for kids under 16 for the cup tie with Motherwell? The number of people in that stand was embarrassing to say the least.
david_heath: We screwed up there you're right!

Alan_G: What's the possibility of holding on to Canero, Boyd, Murray, Fowler or are the big guns chasing?
Jim_Jefferies: Finances will determine whether we can hold on to our young players but we'll do all we can.

killiemad: I think we have a reasonable shape to the team but we have players that are very similar especially on the wings should we be looking at an out and out striker?
Jim_Jefferies: Yes, but lack of funds has stopped us filling that void, but we'll keep looking.

fozzy: Why not segregate the teenage fans at home as the are the ones at away games who are making all the noise?
david_heath: Why not just have open seating and let them congregate?

stuarty: Sean Dillon has had a great start to his Killie career. Can he make it into the Scotland squad in the future?
Jim_Jefferies: Some way to go yet but has the potential to achieve international recognition.

david_heath: We need five more people to log on for me to win the sweep here and beat Hippo - get your mates to log on!

weefatboab: How do you feel about the abuse being directed from the fans towards certain players?
Jim_Jefferies: It doesn't help.

Keenan: Was there any player you made an approach for on loan during the window?
Jim_Jefferies: Yes, but it would be wrong to compromise their current position.

Jimmy_Superscot: Is the deal between the 10 and the 2 really the best deal? Are you happy with it if it was a compromise?
david_heath: We got most of what we wanted - 8:4 voting structure, Pay per View money in the main pot, more percentage of TV revenue to the ten. I think we did well. The press reported differently of course.

The_Ref: Dylan Kerr used to be the DJ in the dressing room, is there still music played and who hogs the ghetto blaster now?
Jim_Jefferies: Ghetto blaster is still there and Boydie hogs it.

fozzy: Do yo u believe that Rugby Park is too big a stadium for us? Or will the new season ticket offer bring us closer to capacity
david_heath: In retrospect we should have built the seats further apart for more comfort and gone to 14,000.

andy_pandy: Do you think Stevie's fitness has been a key factor this season?
Jim_Jefferies: Yes, and his contract condition has a lot to do with this.

andy_pandy: Do you think the SPL will end up like the Irish league?
david_heath: I think in the long term there will be restructuring but there will be opportunities for Killie perhaps in an improved British set-up - but that's just my view.

Lekovic: Jim, I've been disappointed with Dargo playing off the front two, I think he is a better in and around the goalmouth area.
Jim_Jefferies: Lack of forward going midfield players in the present squad has forced us to play him there but he is unlikely to feature there in future.

david_heath: Six more users please - to win the bet against Hippo - get your mates on or log on under another user name!

s_strong: Jim, do you read the message boards and, if not are you regularly updated on the topics of discussion?
Jim_Jefferies: I don't read them but the IT dept keep me up to date.

The_Ref: Jim, David is a registered user of Killiefc.com. If you were to think up a username, what would it be and why?
Jim_Jefferies: Gaffer... because I'm the boss!

champs_of_65: What finally convinced the board to agree to the 135 deal?
david_heath: We all recognised we needed to do something about attendances and couldn't just sit back, plus the enthusiasm of the 125 group and you are our customers after all.

Keenan: Jaconelli was about to make the break through in to the first team under Blobby why not you?
Jim_Jefferies: Due to injuries and his fitness level, he has struggled.

zorro: What are your thoughts on the Inverness mob contacting the office of fair trading?
david_heath: If I was them I would do that but I don't think its an OFT issue - it's related to the requirements for safety as a consequence of the Taylor Report so the view is the SPL will survive any OFT challenge.

Jimmy_Superscot: Does the club have scouts watching the lower English leagues where there are some talented players on sensible wages?
Jim_Jefferies: Yes, we have a network of scouts who keep us up to date.

knapster: League shows we have better away than home record, suggesting we are better on the counter, do you feel we are positive enough at home?
Jim_Jefferies: Home and away we play to win. Most teams find it easier to play away.

Susie_Blue: David, how will OF fans in the main stand be handled next season, now that there will be open seating?
david_heath: Hopefully the main stand will be full but you're right we need to be extra vigilant.

wimp: If money wasn't a problem what current player playing in the SPL would you bring to Killie?
Jim_Jefferies: Barry Ferguson or Henrik Larsson.

The_doomed: re seating issue, if we make it open seating, can we cordon of the top most left section and 2 sections below in east stand.... if we don't fill them that is?
david_heath: Get back to cleaning Jim's boots!

samfaecoturn: Do you think current players work hard enough at picking up the basic skills, i.e. kicking with two feet. Do you encourage extra training?
Jim_Jefferies: We work on basic training routines but players need to put in extra work voluntarily.

champs_of_65: Given the government's stance on sectarianism, why are the stewards/police at RP reluctant to expel OF fans?
david_heath: Police and stewards honestly believe that on occasions they haven't thrown people out they haven't been behaving in a sectarian manner. however... I have a meeting with a councilor next week to help develop a Killie sectarian policy.
baz: Club go sectarian shocker!!!!

J_M_B: What's your view on possible introduction of artificial pitches?
Jim_Jefferies: They are improving and I think it is the answer to a lack of training facilities that are badly needed in Scotland.

Chubbs: Being Nutz sounds like a laugh. Why not offer several 'guest' spots throughout the season to fill the role of Nutz?
david_heath: Chubbs, good idea - but maybe should get another mascot as the guest?

knapster: In your opinion what position are we weakest in?
Jim_Jefferies: The attacking midfield area plus chief executive!

Alan_G: JJ, How did you rate Canero's performance on Tuesday?
Jim_Jefferies: Alan - played very well and must be knocking on the door for a full cap.

FBF: The club's official website has improved over the last few months, I won't say anything regards Monty's preview, but is there any plans to expand on the website and perhaps, give it a new look?
FBF: What about giving Baz a job?
baz: Official food tester?
david_heath: Yes there is - we are changing servers and doing a re-design and teaching doomed to spell.

Chubbs: With the loss of Ally Mitchell in the midfield, we seem to be lacking some 'dig' . Are there any youngsters in the reserves who can fill this role or will we be bringing someone in during the summer?
Jim_Jefferies: We will look at the end of the season to bring someone in. Of the youngsters Gilroy fits the bill.

Jimmy_Superscot: With all the cuts are you happy that the playing side was affected as little as possible?
david_heath: Our goal is to give Jim as much money as we can afford. Jim and I talked in depth about the type of squad we can have next year for the budget available and Jim's accepted the budget.

Lucy: Jim, it seems to be an occurring problem, that whenever Gary Locke plays we seem to lose! Do you agree?
Jim_Jefferies: Lucy - not true, we won at Aberdeen and has played in other winning teams. We will see the best of Locke next season in midfield.

McDeeBop: Are you proud to be able to play 11 Scots almost every weekend? And are you disappointed that Killie don't get the recognition they deserve for it?
Jim_Jefferies: A lot has been made of going down the road of young homegrown players and we are one of the clubs doing so and are proud of it.

Keenan: Is it true the corners may get filled in at RP because of this new season ticket plan?
david_heath: We've got capacity to fill up before we consider that, but we're looking at a possible office development that would fill the west/Moffat corner - still doing the business plan no decision yet.

andy_pandy: How not get Michael Stewart on loan?
Jim_Jefferies: We can't afford his wages.

andy_pandy: dh how many season tickets you expecting next season?
david_heath: I'm targeting over 8,000 including the free ones - we've got to aim big.

P_Clarke: JJ, who is the best player you have ever worked with?
Jim_Jefferies: Technically, Simon Stainrod who is a very gifted player. Most professional, Steven Pressley.

dougall: Why do the beeb never show our games?
david_heath: We wrote to them complaining and as a result we've now got Dunfermline live on March 16th. If we get another post split we'll be on a par with the rest.

Eastenders: I always find it amusing the way you get worked up in the dug out are you knackered after the game?
Jim_Jefferies: Yes, fecked!

GodFlesh: Ever thought of having a supporter hall of fame in the sacred corridors? Kick it off with the 125 committee, The Messiah and a few others and give them their place in Killie's history....
david_heath: Good idea - never thought of it before but I will now.

Lucy: JJ why do you not think it is disgraceful the Kris Boyd did not make it into the Scotland u21 squad? Do you think its just a matter of time before he does?
Jim_Jefferies: He was unlucky when watched as he played badly but he will be in future squads I'm sure.

Alan_G: DH, My son is a current season ticket holder, I'm not (work commitments). If I buy one will he be able to use the free one?
david_heath: The free one can't be an existing season ticket holder.

killiekev: does JJ recognise the need to improve things in the middle of the park?
Jim_Jefferies: Yes, we are looking for someone who gets beyond the strikers.

weefatbob: Why two new strips again next season?
david_heath: Because more people seem to want a new strip that the people who think its a bad idea.

weefatbob: with the success of South Korea/Japan/China in the World Cup ever thought of looking in Asia for new talent?
Jim_Jefferies: It's a very expensive place for players due to the success of the World Cup.

dougall: The catering has been disappointing e.g. pies running out before half time is there any changes to this for next season?
david_heath: The contract was for a year and we will be subbing it out again and giving others to option to bid - quality is an issue that would need to be addressed by the existing people.

champs_of_65: If we had not got knocked out of both cups, how far do you think we could have got? Finals?
Jim_Jefferies: Very disappointed. Felt that with our form prior to break we could have went all the way with a few breaks.

Jamsie: I'm a privilege seat holder with a prime seat in the East stand. I've bought season tickets for my kids to safeguard there seat beside me (1 of whom is only 2) and has only been once.
david_heath: I understand your problem - we're reviewing all inputs on this.

wimp: How much did Woody get for cleaning your boots at Xmas?
Jim_Jefferies: He'll be paid at end of season!

killiekev: I currently buy two season tickets how will i benefit from the new scheme
david_heath: You benefit if you or baz and co. find two partners and your price gets cut in half.

Susie_Blue: Mr. Heath, any chance of getting a MacDonald's franchise at RP, instead of the current catering mob?
david_heath: We've tried but they're not interested - not enough non match day volume for them.

Sparky: With the lack of funds available do you feel that Colin Stewart and Samson should be given first team experience?
Jim_Jefferies: Samson is not quite ready. Smith and Stewart are possibilities.

killiefan97: David remember the Gateway Project? What happened and are there plans to complete Killie's training / youth academy?
david_heath: We submitted a bid in January for a youth academy project that can be afforded - the previous ones were too dear - we'll hear early April if we're successful.

J_M_B: If you could be any current Killie player for a day who would it be and why?
Jim_Jefferies: Big Marsh - I'd love to have his money!
david_heath: I would be Robert Campbell our new 16 year old. 6'2" winger because I would be 16 again and a Killie player.

baz: ten minutes to go peeps

samfaecoturn: Why do we give OF both ends as they are attacking there own fans booth halves?
david_heath: Because we get 75 grand a stand for it 4 times a season and at the moment Killie fans don't buy enough tickets.

Jamsie: I like the look of Gary McDonald, he reminds me of Ian Durrant - he's got great balance. Do you think he has a long term future at Rugby Park?
Jim_Jefferies: Gary has all the attributes to be a good attacking midfielder but needs to produce more end product.

The_Ref: Where do you see Kilmarnock FC in 10 years time?
david_heath: In a British league top first or premier division, with enhanced fans ownership of the club and a burgeoning youth academy which has huge community benefits also a successful hotel, leisure centre and office development.

wimp: Who is the most gullible player in the squad and why?
Jim_Jefferies: Stevie Murray, Andy McLaren winds him up all the time as he resembles Jimmy Krankie!

chubbs: If the season tickets take off next year and we get 8-9000 holders, will we restrict the OF to one stand?
david_heath: How about 1.5 stands?

paninaro: Jim, that was a nice own goal you scored against Rangers, any other ones?
Jim_Jefferies: That's the only one I remember!

shimmy: Any chance of getting us to Hampden more often? I got lost getting into ground last night, not used to it!
Jim_Jefferies: I'll do my best!

chubbs: There is a planning application to build a full size indoor Astroturf pitch at Townholm, in this week's Standard. Is this from the club/youth academy or is someone trying to muscle in on the land?
david_heath: It's part of the academy - revamp of the 4 dean park pitches, new artificial pitch plus indoor arena.

champs_of_65: Is Gary McSwegan's contract only up until the summer? And if so, is he worthy of an extension?
Jim_Jefferies: His contract is until end of May. His performances until then will decide if he gets an extension.

No50: David, you say you wrote to the BBC about TV coverage and they have now given us the Dunfermline game, did they state any reason for lack of Killie coverage? i.e. lack of attractive football? (No offense gaffer btw)
david_heath: I was told off the record a year ago that one of the reasons we didn't get huge coverage was we were boring but I don't think that applies this season.

Squirrelhumper: How do you rate Chris Boyle and do you see him getting a game for the first team this season?
Jim_Jefferies: He has been in our last 3 squads and I'd like too give him an opportunity before the season ends.

champs_of_65: DH is there any chance of the price for Killie tops going down? £40 is just too much!
david_heath: Right now the yellow top is £15.

WW: Do you think we need anyone new up front next year or stick with what we have? What about Robbie Winters?
Jim_Jefferies: We are actively pursuing players in that position for the new season.

GodFlesh: Ever thought of offering a subscription to the match programme?
david_heath: When I was at Celtic we tried it as a package and it didn't seem to work.

shimmy: Did you take a liking to any of the young Irish boys on Tuesday night? (didn't sound right did it!)
Jim_Jefferies: I was attending a game in England on Tuesday watching a possible target for next season.

killiekev: I live and work in Glasgow and have little chance of getting my friends to Rugby park even for half price given the OF - so how do I benefit from your new deal?
david_heath: Contact baz and co. about pairing - we'll be talking about the mechanism for this and publicise it soon.

Keenan: What is your aim for next season?
Jim_Jefferies: Simple, to improve on this year and a better cup run.

Keenan: I don't own a season ticket this season because I'm a poor student the first time in a few seasons, if I buy a season ticket next season will I get a free one?
david_heath: Yes, you will get a free one - its only this years ticket holders that can't get the free one.

WW: Jim, I feel we don't (and haven't for a long while!) threaten at set pieces - do we have a dead ball expert and do we work at this?
Jim_Jefferies: We work at set pieces regularly and we sometimes wonder if the minds go blank on a Saturday. We will strive to improve.

chubbs: Back to the important stuff. Will there be free pie vouchers in next years season ticket book?
david_heath: No there wont.

dougall: Will the indoor pitch be available to the public?
david_heath: Yes it will and so will the artificial outdoor one and the Dean Park pitches - the club and Kilmarnock College get first call but there will be plenty of capacity. Outdoor one can split and indoor will split into two or three five a side also if needed.

Kfc66: How do you think Bobby Williamson has done since being with Hibs?
Jim_Jefferies: OK

Jamsie: Will you allow Freddie to leave ?
Jim_Jefferies: We have had no offers and I'm happy to keep him unless we receive an offer we can't refuse, that applies to most players.

david_heath: On behalf of KFC thanks a lot to everyone who participated - if anyone ever wants to ask me questions feel free to email chiefexec@kilmarnockfc.co.uk
Jim_Jefferies: Thanks to everyone for taking the time to ask these questions and you can be assured we look forward to doing this again later in the season, you can e-mail me also at - manager@kilmarnockfc.co.uk
david_heath: We're away to spend hippo's winnings in the hotel!
baz: Yes, thanks for everything guys...we have to let the main men go now...we'll try and get a transcript sorted up as soon as.