Dom Thomas loving life at Kilmarnock
Last updated 21st Jul 2017
Dom Thomas had gone back to school at Kilmarnock and he could not be happier.
The 21-year-old winger signed a three-year deal with the Rugby Park club in the summer after leaving Motherwell, following a loan spell at Queen of the South.
Thomas was told by Killie boss Lee McCulloch to play like he was back in the playground and in his first start he scored a double in the 4-2 Betfred Cup win over Clyde on Tuesday night.
Ahead of the trip to Annan Athletic on Saturday, the former Celtic youth player said: "Everyone has a different opinion but the way they (Motherwell) were playing wasn't really for me
"The way they set out to play football here is perfect for me.
"The manager said he wants me to play with a smile on my face and that was music to my ears.
The way I wanted to play football was the way he wants me to play and I am thankful for that.
"He told me to go and play like you are playing in the school with your pals and for me that's the way should be played but people take football too seriously.
"If you are not enjoying football then there is no point in playing it.''
McCulloch insists he is trying to take the fear factor out of football at Rugby Park.
He said: "I spoke to Dom and he was telling me that what he had been taught in the last year or two had been about defence.
"I just wanted him to enjoy his football again and go and play as a free spirit and I think he done that the other night.
"As long as he is putting in the hard work then I just want him to enjoy himself and express himself with no fear.
"That is the culture we are trying to create, especially in the final third, just go and express yourself and don't fear giving the ball away.
"Worse things have happened than giving a football away, especially in the final third of the pitch.''
Killie's win over League Two side Clyde was a much-needed boost after losing the opening Group E game to rivals Ayr United.
McCulloch is expecting another tough test at Galabank.
He said: "We looked brighter sharper and more like a team against Clyde but that is gone now.
"I watched Annan against Clyde (lost 2-1) and we are under no illusions as to how difficult a game it is going to be.'