Kilmarnock’s Joe Wright Rejects “Dirty Team” Label Despite Club’s Disciplinary Record

Joe Wright has dismissed the idea of Kilmarnock being considered “a dirty team,” even as the club faces scrutiny over its disciplinary record this season. Derek McInnes’ squad has accumulated a total of six red cards during the current season, with Liam Donnelly set to miss Saturday’s game against Dundee after being sent off in the previous weekend’s defeat by St Johnstone. When questioned about Killie’s disciplinary issues, Wright stated, “Obviously I’ve had a couple myself, which I’ve taken accountability for and have tried my best to learn from that.” He added, “And I just think that’s what we’ve got to do as a group, learn from those mistakes.” Wright also noted the wider impact of these dismissals, saying, “Obviously it’s frustrating for the people that are getting sent off, but more so for the team, the support and the management.” Reflecting on his own history, Wright commented, “It’s something I’ve never had an issue with before. Before this season, I had one red card in my whole career.” He concluded by remarking, “So I wouldn’t say we’re a dirty team or anything like that, I just think it’s, it’s been a bit like London buses, they have just all come at once.” Wright explained that he is now consciously trying to avoid rushing into challenges as he “adapts” his playing style to prevent further disciplinary actions from referees. “I have had a chat with the manager,” he disclosed. “He just spoke to me about getting back to how I was last season. I don’t even think I really pick up that many yellows normally.” Wright elaborated on his personal efforts to improve: “So for myself to pick up two red cards in such a short space of time is something that I’ve tried to learn from, take accountability for and just address the way I train as well. I’ve tried to make sure that I stay on my feet more, probably adapting a little bit to try and help myself on match days.” He described his modified approach to defending: “Just trying to maybe slow people down a bit more. I’m a defender that likes to be aggressive, likes to put players under pressure, but I think there’s times where I’ve just adapted that a little bit.”