David Watson enjoys responsibility of helping even younger players at Kilmarnock

Kilmarnock midfielder David Watson is enjoying the responsibility of helping even younger players after being joined in the team by other academy graduates.

With two full seasons in the first team under his belt, the 20-year-old has relished the chance to pass on his experience after Stuart Kettlewell handed regular starts to other young players.

“He’s been helpful, not just for me, but for other young lads,” Watson said. “You look at Ben Brannan and Ethan Brown. Ethan’s got his first start and he’s done brilliantly, he’s come into the squad and Ben Brannan’s obviously been amazing, scoring goals from a left-back position that he’s not used to.

“Definitely for the young lads, he’s been brilliant. There’s young boys training every day, so it opens up opportunities for academy players.

“I feel like I already had some (leadership qualities) but now being the more experienced player of the young lads, I feel like I can hand out advice and be that person that if a young lad has any issues or anything they can come and speak to me about it and I’ll be able to offer some good advice.”

Killie are unbeaten under Kettlewell ahead of Saturday’s William Hill Premiership clash at Motherwell and Watson has featured heavily in all eight games.

“Last season was a difficult season for everyone at the club. We were disappointed we didn’t live up to what our expectations were as a group, but this season has been really enjoyable,” the Scotland Under-21 international said.

“We’re starting to come together as a group now, trying to add the finishing touches.

“It’s going to help me, learning new things every day, playing in a different system, playing a different role slightly. I’m learning and I’m loving it.

“I said that last year, not playing every week, being a bit disappointed, that helps you learn and realise what football is all about.

“You’re not going to play every week, you’re going to have to deal with these situations. It’s helped me learn a wee bit about the ins and outs of football.”