Arsenal loanee, Alex Kirk, is poised to return to Ayr United for their upcoming promotion play-off this month. In March, Kirk sustained an ankle ligament strain that prevented him from participating in any activities. At first, there was speculation that he would be sidelined for the remainder of the season and would need to head back to Arsenal for additional medical attention. Kirk has recently voiced his disappointment regarding the early end of his campaign. He expressed his desire to contribute to the promotion push and give his best in the remaining games. Recent developments suggest that he may finally get the opportunity to do so, following the completion of his rehabilitation last week.
Kirk is set to rejoin the squad as reported by The Daily Record, following Ayr United’s successful conclusion of their league campaign with a win on Friday, securing their spot in the promotion playoffs. Ayr United’s Kirk has made a commendable 24 appearances this season, despite being absent due to injuries on a couple of occasions. However, his return to the starting lineup is not guaranteed. Nonetheless, Kirk is enthusiastic about contributing to the team in any way possible.
In contrast to the English Football League playoffs system, the Scottish league system’s promotion playoffs exhibit notable differences. In the upcoming Championship playoffs, the third and fourth-placed teams will go head-to-head in a two-legged quarter-final. The team that emerges victorious from the tie will proceed to a two-legged semi-final against the second-placed team in the league. Following the initial tie, the victorious team will proceed to face off against the second-to-last ranked squad in the Scottish Premiership in yet another two-part match. Kilmarnock currently holds the top spot, but there are still a few matches left to play.
Ayr United secured the second spot in the league, earning them the opportunity to compete in a two-legged tie against the victor of the third versus fourth playoff. In the event of a victory, they will be pitted against the 11th-placed team in the Premiership, with the opportunity to secure a promotion. Ayr United will face off against their opponents in the play-off semi-final on May 19th and May 26th, with the first match being played away. The highly anticipated quarter-final match-up between Partick Thistle and Queen’s Park has been scheduled for May 9th and May 12th.
