Greenock Morton manager Dougie Imrie paid tribute to departing defender Kirk Broadfoot, after his final game for the side in Morton’s 2-2 draw with Partick Thistle at Firhill.
A club statement shortly after the game on Saturday announced; “Greenock Morton can confirm that Kirk Broadfoot has departed the club.
Following discussions between the club and the player earlier this week, it was agreed that today would be Kirk’s final match with the club and he now departs following our draw at Firhill.
During his time at Cappielow, Kirk has been a consummate professional who always made himself available to play including through periods of injury. A player that has played at the highest level in this country, Kirk always showed dedication and commitment to the club and we are grateful for all his effort during his time with us, we also wish him well as he moves on to a new chapter.”
Broadfoot joined Morton in 2023 from Lowland League side Open Goal Broomhill, making 57 appearances and scoring 5 goals for the Inverclyde club during his tenure.
In his post-match press conference, manager Imrie described the loss as “a massive blow”.
“I’d just like to put on record my appreciation for Kirk and what he’s given this football club. A lot of people had written them off, but certainly we as a staff and the players knew what he had and I’m thankful for the effort and the commitment and the desire that he’s shown.“
Broadfoot‘s cameo at Firhill was his first since a 1-1 draw against Ayr United at Cappielow back in November, where he played the full ninety minutes. Broadfoot was then out injured, before returning to the bench as an unused substitute for last week’s clash with Queen’s Park at Hampden.
“The effort, the commitment and the desire to play week in, week out, playing through injuries that people didn’t know about, and then still coming back and giving his all.”
On the topic of Broadfoot still playing at the age of 40, Imrie said “Age is just a number”, adding that the younger squad players could take inspiration.
“They should be looking at him. His professionalism around the place, what he does away from the ground, what he does in the ground, what he eats. Age is a number, and he’s looked after himself and that’s why he still playing at this time.”
Broadfoot’s departure leaves Morton light at the back, with only two recognised centre-backs match fit, Jack Baird and Morgan Boyes,
“Dylan Corr isn’t too far away. He’ll be back in and around the squad for the Airdrie game [on the 15th of February], but losing Kirk is a blow.
“I’m devastated to see him go, but we had a conversation and that was the outcome. [Broadfoot is] a massive player to lose at this time of the season at that time of the season, 2 days before the window shuts. It’s not ideal for me, but that is what it is.”
