A PERIOD of self isolation because of Covid-19 may have delayed Kai Kennedy’s arrival but he’s ready to show why he’s an ideal fit for Athletic.

The 19-year-old completed his much anticipated loan move from Rangers ahead of the recent Premier Sports Cup win over Stenhousemuir, impressing as a substitute, before appearing from the bench for his league bow at Morton on Saturday.

Kennedy, who penned a new deal in January that keeps him at Ibrox until 2023, joined the Pars on a season-long loan deal despite attracting interest from English Premier League side West Ham United.

The Hammers, managed by former Dunfermline defender, David Moyes, had bids to take the teenage winger south permanently rejected, with Kennedy insisting he simply kept his head down and continued to train.

That in itself was disrupted during the close season, and impacted on his arrival at East End, as he told Press Sport: “I had Covid a few weeks back and I was meant to come after it, then a lot of stuff happened, but when I think about things, I’m absolutely delighted to get here and finally get it over the line.

“I was obviously disappointed, but I’m just happy that I’m back now, and I feel like I’m ready to go.

“I had to isolate further on and I just worked hard when I was doing that, got fit and got focused for the season ahead.

“I played against Alloa (while on loan at Inverness and Raith Rovers) a lot last year and I watched the gaffer. I liked the way he played football and I think, of course, my style and the way he plays means this was just the right move for me.

“The more of the ball you have, the more chance you have of winning the game, and you can tell as they’ve been creating chances and scoring a lot of goals.

“I just look to add more to it.”

Rangers have a recall option in January, but Kennedy added: “That’s what you go on loan for, to prepare to try and get ready to go back and be part of Rangers first team. That’s my ambition.

“But I’m here and I want to do very well for the club.”