Double joy for Russell as first baby arrives in time for Second Division title win

Apr 14 2011 by Eric MacKinnon, West Lothian Courier

Iain Russell

IAIN RUSSELL believes newborn son Alfie entered the world early to ensure his old man was part of Livingston’s title celebrations.

Russell’s wife went into labour in the early hours of Saturday morning and the striker, nicknamed Beany, reckons his new arrival showed perfect timing to allow him to help Livi clinch glory.

“It was at half past five this morning and I wasn’t sure if I was going to make it to the game,” admitted Russell after helping Livingston win 3-0 at Stenhousemuir, which secured the Second Division title courtesy of Brechin’s defeat to East Fife. “But I made sure I kept the gaffer in the loop and up to date with what was happening.

“After Alfie was born and everyone was OK, my wife said she was happy for me to go to the game.

“It was hard to leave them and I didn’t want to but I was really looking forward to the game.

“I think it was good timing in a way. He came early; I think he was in a hurry to come today just in time for the title celebrations.

“Everything fell into place for me – it was a perfect day.”

Russell, despite lack of sleep, played his part in helping Livi secure their second title in a row and admitted he thought of giving his newborn son the middle names Kyle, Liam and David in honour of the goalscorers on Saturday.

“I am a bit knackered as I’ve not really slept in a couple of days, so I did what I could on the park,” said Livi’s top scorer.

“The gaffer just asked me to give my all. Maybe it was just adrenaline that got me through it.

“I could give Alfie the middle names from the scorers today but I don’t think my wife would be too happy with that!

“I’m going to miss the celebrations tonight and the boys will probably be out today and tomorrow as we have Monday off.

“Everyone is buzzing and although it has a been a good season, this has been a really great week.

“We played well, worked hard and played at a really high tempo – and it paid off.”

Turn to pages 62-63 for more on Livingston’s title celebrations.