LEAGUE CUP shock troops Ayr and Falkirk admit they are gearing up for a battle to hang on to their bosses....
REPORTS The Daily Record
Bairns gaffer Steven Pressley and Ayr boss Brian Reid gave their growing reputations a huge boost after getting the better of Dundee United and St Mirren on Tuesday night.
And those results have put both men in the shop window for a move to bigger things.
Bairns chairman Martin Ritchie said: "Falkirk is a stepping stone for our young players and even the manager.
"They will all get big moves if they hone their skills and shine here and we have to be realistic and say they will go on to bigger things one day.
"Steven's a great manager and has had to work under a lot of restrictions but I'd hope to keep him for about two years before a big club comes for him.
"We don't want to see him go but we won't stand in his way if somebody wants to come in later in the day.
"This is a huge job and we hope we can keep him for some time but I wouldn't be surprised to see clubs coming for him."
Ayr chairman Lachlan Cameron admits Reid will be at the top of a few shopping lists.
He said: "I wouldn't be at all surprised if clubs look at him but the bottom line is nobody has called me about Brian and that is the way I like it. I want him to remain a part of this football club for some time yet.
"Brian has had some success here in recent times and is doing a great job like so many here.
"You can't help other clubs looking at him but I want him to stay here and keep taking us forward."
Cameron revealed he actually missed Ayr's win over St Mirren because he was away on business trip.
He said: "I was in America and I had to watch it online. I was getting texts from people who were there so I was as excited as anyone."
Ritchie might not have to worry about his manager moving to the big time if the SPL was increased.
He reckons Tuesday's shocks prove First Division sides could cut it in the top flight in Scotland.
He said: "I'd say this shows the SPL should be bigger but it's just not going to happen."