Every hero relies on a Villan

Robbo keeps it real as Saints fans dream of cracking Europe like stars of his childhood

- ANDY NEWPORT

STEPHEN ROBINSON I got to live the dream cheering his Aston Villa heroes to European Cup glory as a schoolboy fan.

Now, 42 years on, the St Mirren boss is determined to fuel the passport hopes of the Paisley faithful who are fantasising about their own continental adventure.

The Buddies haven't qualified for any UEFA competition since they lifted the Scottish Cup back in 1987.

But they can take a huge step towards booking a return trip abroad if they can beat Kilmarnock today and open up a four-point lead in fourth place.

But while the Saints supporters are dreaming big the Northern Irishman will make sure his team take a reality check before running out at Rugby Park.

He said: "I'm an Aston Villa fan so I remember growing up and watching Tony Morley, Peter Withe, Gary Shaw in Europe.

"I have memories of my boyhood team going all the way, with Nigel Spink coming on for Jimmy Rimmer in the final in 1982.