John Hughes hopes to secure Rangers duo Kai Kennedy and James Maxwell in January
Dunfermline boss John Hughes is looking to sign James Maxwell in January, reuniting him with Rangers loanee Kai Kennedy who’s already in his squad.
The Scotsman reports that January talks are scheduled in order to evaluate Kennedy’s performance as the 19-year-old approaches the halfway point of his season long loan with the Pars.
Hughes hopes to convince Kennedy to stay at the club after only making three appearances since the new Dunfermline boss’ arrival.
He hopes to bolster his squad with a familiar face for Kennedy in the shape of youth teammate Maxwell, who’s currently out on loan with Ayr United.
“You have to speak to the player first and try to twist his arm,” Hughes told The Scotsman regarding Kennedy.
“Kai’s found himself out of the team. But one thing I can tell you is he’s a smashing boy and he’s got a massive, massive future.
“He can turn a game, Kai Kennedy, and if he’s here after the window then I would be absolutely delighted.
“He fills that left-hand side until Dom [Thomas] gets back – and then there’s competition for places.”
Hopeful in adding Maxwell to his ranks, Hughes added: “He’s been on loan twice – he did very well at Queens and he’s doing very well at Ayr United. He’s a player I would like at the club and we’re still in dialogue hoping he might come our way,”
Unnecessary
With Kennedy having to be convinced to stay out on loan at East End Park, it seems strange they would go in for another, especially with the young Rangers pair playing in different positions.
Maxwell operates on the wings much like Kennedy, but his versatility could see him favoured at Dunfermline. The 20-year-old can also play in both fullback positions offering great competition for places amongst the squad.
Currently out on loan at Ayr United and with interest from the Fife side, Hughes is still confident in securing Maxwell.
But from the player’s perspective he will want to go somewhere where he is guaranteed game time, the most important factor when going out on loan.
Having his mate Kennedy at the club might sway his decision but Maxwell isn’t looking to go to a club to have fun with his friends.
The most important thing for the youngster is to gain vital first team experience, play as many minutes on the pitch as possible and come back to the Gers a more mature player in the hope of making an impact at his parent club.
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