I'VE NOT RULED OUT BURGH RETURN
Published 29 Sep 2011 09:30
DAVID Brolly reflected on his 14 seasons at Johnstone Burgh as the striker hung up his boots - but conceded it may not be for the last time.
The Keanie Park veteran admitted he would be happy to return to action if the club issued him an SOS call if there was a lack of players.
The 38-year-old, who had an eight-year spell first time at the Burgh, also played for Arthurlie, Irvine Meadow and Largs Thistle before returning to Keanie Park for six seasons.
After making the hard decision to call it a day, Brolly is confident the club he is leaving behind has a squad capable of winning the league and a manager who is irreplaceable.
He told Gazette Sport: "I am too old to be playing now and it is time for the younger players to come in and shine at the club.
"It was a very hard decision to make but I believe it is for the best as there comes a point where you decide enough is enough and the old bones and muscles can't take it any longer.
"When you play football every Saturday for the best part of 30 years - it is very tough to turn away, but the time is right.
"However, I will still keep my hand in here - do some training with the boys and if I am ever needed I will be a phone call away for the manager.
"I have had some great times at the club and played with some great players and worked under a great management team.
"I have won the Central League and reached the Scottish Junior Cup final - these are the things you remember along with those who you work with.
"The players here are great and there are some new ones coming through.
"I have no doubt this club will go on to bigger and better things.
"Working under Gordie has been great. I hope he stays here for a long time.
"He has helped the club out in the past with money as well and his heart is Johnstone Burgh. It is in his blood.
"Anyone else coming in would have a hard job to do and big boots to fill at the very least.
"He puts in a lot of time - not just on training nights and games.
"He goes to the park every day nearly and puts a lot of time and effort in.
"He is a fantastic manager and along with the rest of the management they can take this team back up.
"There are a lot of players here who want to play football for the team and not for the money so it says a lot for the club. They could go elsewhere and they choose not to and it says it all."
This article appeared in The Gazette 28 Sep 11
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