Wellington Phoenix assistant coach Jonathan Gould believes defender Steven Old will perform well in the Scottish Premier League.

The former Celtic goalkeeper attempted to sign the 23-year old defender to New Zealand club Hawke's Bay who he managed from 2006 until last season.

But Old decided to make the journey to Europe and eventually signed with Scottish Premier League club Kilmarnock.

"I actually worked with Steven at the Olympics as a coach for New Zealand," said Gould.

"When he was leaving Wellington Phoenix he was in limbo a bit as he was between clubs.

"He'd gone to Belgium on trial but I spoke to him about signing for me at Hawke's Bay. He politely declined.

"Steven had made up his mind on a move to Europe and I am sure he will go on to do well with Kilmarnock. He is the sort of player that the Kilmarnock support will appreciate.

"He is a good, honest professional and he did very well in his time at Phoenix.

"I'm sure he will do well in the SPL as he's an uncompromising defender, he's good in the air and he has pace.

"Jim Jefferies has clearly seen something he likes in him.

"Steven has worked through all the visa issues, which is not an easy thing.

"I'm sure that given the opportunity he'll do a job for Killie."