Albion Rovers – The fan managing the Lowland League team against Hearts B

From being mascot at Stark’s Park, playing in goal for John O’Groats out in the Netherlands to contributing to a Challenge Cup draw with David Gray, McKay has put in some pretty mad shifts.

But crossing the pitch at Cliftonhill, an old-fashioned gem of a ground, is the wildest of the lot. This has consequences. For both involved parties.

Two seasons ago, Albion’s 104-year stint in the senior leagues came to an end as they were relegated following a play-off defeat by The Spartans.

Like all who dropped down before them, they’ve struggled to adjust to life in the Lowland League, the fifth tier of Scottish football, but are managed by a stalwart of the game in Sandy Clark.

However, the former Rangers, West Ham United and Heart of Midlothian striker will take a side step to allow McKay to bring his computer game, Football Manager, experience to life.

“I suppose on Albion Rovers’ point, it’s brave,” McKay said. “The fact Sandy’s even up for this is intriguing and has kind of got me interested.”

The two are yet to trade tactics, as part of the segment – alongside BAFTA award-winning producer Duncan Cowles, who is a self-confessed non-football fan – is to be authentic and “experience things as they go along”.

That could spell trouble, though.

Rovers’ have only had one game since McKay’s move was confirmed, so he’s been short on scouting and studying time.

“They’ve only had one game, and they won that 5-0,” he pointed out. “Unless we win 6-0, which I’m not against, it might look like we’ve fallen back a little bit.

“I’ve been watching highlights and going through player profiles and stuff like that, trying to work out who’s playing well.

“I’d like to think I’ll be a little guided by Sandy in case I inadvertently put a right back up front or a striker in goals.

“Hopefully, I don’t do too much damage to their reputation.”