JOHN BOURKE

184 games (1978-1983; 1988)

Dundee United’s loss was certainly Killie’s gain. After an incredibly difficult year with ‘The Tangerines’, both parties decided to cut their losses and part ways. Promotion-seeking Kilmarnock - at that stage a part-time club - moved fast to secure the tall striker with an impressive one-in-two league strike rate.

John Bourke quickly became a fans’ favourite: ‘The King of Rugby Park’, no less. His presence and outball produced 21 league goals as promotion back to the top flight was achieved in 1979.

Here, John discusses his immense pride at representing Killie, his style of play, the players who brought the best out of him, and his profound regret at deciding not to continue his time with club.