New boy Jonathan Burn eyes career spark at Kilmarnock

Jonathan Burn aims to follow in the footsteps of Middlesbrough team-mate Connor Ripley and use a spell in Scottish football to boost his career.

Burn could make his Kilmarnock debut in Saturday's Betfred Cup tie at Clyde after joining Lee Clark's side on loan.

Goalkeeper Ripley impressed on loan at Motherwell last season and Burn took note.

"He looked like he enjoyed it," the centre-back said.

"It's a good platform for me. I'm only 21 so it's good to get your name about. Hopefully it will be a successful loan. I'm really excited about it.

"The manager is really good at bringing young players through so hopefully I will get my chance.''

Ripley's way to the Middlesbrough first team was blocked when the Premier League newcomers signed former Barcelona goalkeeper Victor Valdes, and he has now gone on loan to Oldham, where Burn played 12 times.

"Last season I was on loan at Oldham Athletic and it was a good loan, but now I have a different test in the Scottish league and I'm looking forward to get going,'' said 20-year-old Burn.

"I learnt at Oldham that you've got to fight for your place, you can't just turn up and expect to play in every game. You have to work hard in training and fight for your place. "It was a lot more physical than under-21 football. You are going to get knocks and cut heads, I split my eye open.''

Clark has 10 other summer signings from English football competing for a place, while the transfer-listed Conrad Balatoni, Dale Carrick and Kallum Higginbotham are unlikely to feature.

Carrick's departure was later confirmed as the 22-year-old striker signed for Livingston on a one-year contract.