REJUVENATED Ayr United skipper Ross Docherty this week looked back on what he said was a highly successful season for Ayr United.

Now he is relishing a return to action after the summer as the Honest Men look to build on their fourth place finish in the Ladbrokes Championship.

Docherty returned to form in the second half of the season after undergoing a hip operation which kept him sidelined for four months.

He said: “The important thing about this season was that we consolidated our place in the Championship. In past seasons we have gone straight back down. There has to be some high points, like the 5-0 win at Dundee United.

“ That was a great result.”

Docherty, pictured scoring the second goal against Beith last season, knows players are moving on but is hopeful the squad will be strengthened.

He said: “It’s sad to lose the likes of Lawrence Shankland, Liam Smith and Michael Rose, but we will be looking to replace them and strengthen the squad.That often happens.It will be good to have a break and then plan for next season.”

Meanwhile Shankland has thanked the fans for their support.”

He tweeted last week: “Most enjoyable two seasons of my career so far and a time I’ll definitely not forget.

“Thanks to all my team mates and the staff and wish everyone at @AyrUnitedFC all the best for the future.”

Meanwhile Troon boss Jim Kirkwood conceded there was no disgrace in his team’s 5-0 home defeat against Auchinleck Talbot which gave the visitors the Premiership title.

He said: “Some decisions in the first half I wasn’t happy with but they didn’t influence the outcome.

“The Auchinleck lads knew if they did the business the title was their’s. If we can beat Largs on Saturday and finish 10th we would be delighted.”