New manager Malky Mackay says he will reach out to Ross County fans
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Ross County’s new manager Malky Mackay says he will be making efforts to reach out to the club’s fanbase in the coming weeks and months.
Mackay’s appointment was met with backlash from sections of the Staggies support, who believe the past allegations of racism, sexism and homophobia make him unfit to be associated with the club.
To those who have been critical, the 49-year-old asks for the chance to prove himself – adding that supporters will have the chance to speak to him directly to address any concerns.
“Judge me on what I say to you, what you see on the pitch and in press conferences,” he asked.
“I’m sure in the next few months we’ll be going out to talk to fans in Q and As.
“The fact is, I want the very best for this football club and I’ll work 24 hours a-] day. I’m very aligned with the owner and chief executive, and the SFA felt I was someone they wanted to work for them.
“I’ve got unfinished business as a manager and I want to make sure this club succeeds. I want this more than anything.”
Backing from the stands can be crucial for any manager if the tide starts to turn against them on the pitch.
Based on the immediate reaction to Mackay, it does not appear as though he will have much of a grace period.
Decisions will have to be made on the coaching and playing staff going forward that give Mackay the best immediate chance, but he is keen to focus on the long-term project, shrugging off the suggestion there will be added short-term pressure.
“Does it put me under extra pressure at the start? Not particularly,” Mackay insisted.
“We have a long-term journey and plan here.
“In time people will make their own minds up.
“We will be looking at the comings and goings – there is generally a turnover of players in Scotland and there will be again this summer – and it will take time for a team to gel, but this isn’t knee-jerk.
“This is a club with an experienced owner who is very calm. He sees projects over periods of time – not four or five games. We need to make sure when we build, we build well and we have strong foundations.
“Genuine football fans will see that over a period, but we will be going out into the community to talk to them.
“We will do Q and As so the fans and people who care about the club get to understand what I have touched on. Evidence is everything.”
