Kearney has signed six players in this transfer window but wants to add more to strengthen his squad with his targets thought to include a left-back, a central defender, another wide player and a centre forward.

The Northern Irishman, though, warned he would not recruit players for the sake of it.

He said: "We need two or three more like Kyle because we have struggled for width and pace this season.

"We are looking for that but it is about getting the right ones in.

"We will have another couple coming in this week hopefully, but I don't sign players for the sake of signings. I want ones that will make a difference – and Kyle is one of those.

"He has had a tough few years since leaving St Mirren but he has character.

"What an end to a lovely week for him because he is a St Mirren fan so to come on and do that (was special).

"It was a cracking finish. It was one of those moments when a second or two before he strikes it, time stands still and you know it is coming."

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