KILLIE new boy Darryl Westlake is glad he played the waiting game after being released by Sheffield United in May.

The right-back saw his Blades career crumble after Nigel Clough replaced Davie Weir as boss and he was sent on loan to Mansfield.

But despite offers from English clubs, Westlake played for Kilmarnock in a friendly at Morecambe then trained with the club for several weeks.

And his patience was rewarded this week when Allan Johnston signed him up on a one-year deal. The 23-year-old defender, in line to make his debut at home to St Mirren today, said: "A few teams came in for me at the end of my contract but the money wasn't right. I waited and was pleased when the gaffer rang me and I took the chance to come up here.

"It's a great club and I'm pleased to be here."

Westlake, who started his career at Walsall, added: "I've had my fair share of managers over the years. The last one at Sheffield United didn't want me, but you just have to get on with it."