Josh Mullin says staying at Ayr was a no brainer – because he’s playing some of the best football of his career at Somerset.
The midfielder, who had been on loan from Livingston since the summer, is now a United player after agreeing a deal until the end of the season.
It follows a brilliant first half of the campaign in which eight goals and a flurry of assists have helped propel the Honest Men into the title picture.
Now Mullin will bid to help Ayr to title glory during the Championship run-in.
He told the Ayrshire Post: “A big part of the reason to stay was that we are so close to doing something special this season.
“Everyone can see how much I’m enjoying myself here and to get close to double figures in goals this quickly shows that.
“I could have gone back to Livingston and played the odd game and been in and out of the team.
“But for me, playing football and enjoying myself like I am under the gaffer is so important at this stage of my career.
“The manager believes in me and it’s a great team to be part of, we play a style of football that really suits me.
“So it was important for the next stage of my career, whether it’s with Ayr United beyond that or elsewhere, that I continued doing what I’m doing.”
The threat of a recall to Livi had hung over Ayr during January with David Martindale’s side triggering a clause that would have seen Mullin return to the Tony Macaroni.
But United chiefs moved to ensure they got their man on a permanent basis.
Mullin added: “Things are going so well here so it made perfect sense for all concerned that I stayed.
“It’s been an unbelievable few months for the club – maybe not many people expected us to do this – but the boys have been fantastic.”
“The environment of the club is brilliant and it’s one I’ve thoroughly enjoyed being a part of.”
Boss Lee Bullen said: “Josh brings an experience and a voice to the squad that is invaluable.
“He’s won promotion from the league before and would love another one on his CV.
“To have that type of player in your group is vital.
“We’re a very young squad so to have the experience of the likes of Josh is so important.
“And sometimes the best signings you can make at this stage of the season are holding on to your own players.”
