Killie has given me so much. It's the best job in the world. I am really excited for what the future holds...

Rugby Park star celebrates his 400th appearance for nearly a dozen gaffers

- CALLUM CARSON

Rory McKenzie admits he's cherishing being a Kilmarnock player more now than he ever.

The 31-year-old has racked up 14 years of first team action at Rugby Park, tallying more than 400 appearances and turning out for nearly a dozen managers.

He admits he's lived the dream - and is in no rush to see that ending any time soon.

Reflecting on his journey in the game, McKenzie says: "Kenny Shiels gave me my first-team debut against Caley Thistle.

"Mixu Paatelainen put me in a first-team squad a few weeks before but then he got the Finland job.

"I went to Brechin in the January, while still playing for the under-19s. Going to Brechin and playing proper football was amazing.

"I've not played as much as I would have wanted in the last few years but Kilmarnock is all I've ever known. It's given me so much. I've now got kids, I stay five minutes away and everything is perfect. I'm cherishing being a football player at Kilmarnock more than I ever have."

He added: "I joined the academy at 12. I'd played for my boys' club team and Kilmarnock approached.