by Jordan Robertson.

There has been another blow for Kilmarnock and their title hopes as top scorer Greg Stewart has been recalled by parent club Birmingham.

The attacker joined the Rugby Park side at the beginning of the season on a season long loan and has played a vital part in the high flying Ayrshire side’s incredible season so far.

Stewart, 28, was meant to stay at Kilmarnock for the remainder of the season and boss Steve Clarke recently admitted he was confident of keeping the attacker. However, Birmingham boss Gary Monk has recalled him early and it is thought that he will be sold in order to bring money in to the cash strapped club.

Stewart’s exit comes shortly after it was announced that key Killie man Jordan Jones has signed a pre contract with Rangers, who sit one point above Kilmarnock in the league.

Jones announced his delight at signing for the Ibrox side on Twitter. However, his choice of words angered some Kilmarnock fans who insist that the winger was being disrespectful.

Editor of the Kilmarnock FC fanzine ‘The Killie Hippo’, Sandy Armour, feels that Jones’ actions were highly unprofessional. Armour said: “Jordan has knocked back several contract offers from Kilmarnock so it was obvious he was moving on but it has all got a bit messy.

“His infantile comments on social media were totally disrespectful to the club that still pay his wages.

“The manager has rightly kept quiet but it will be interesting to see if he is in the team when we return to action next weekend.

“There has been a fantastic spirit this season both in the dressing room and in the stands so we can do without without the behaviour of one individual ruining that.”

Armour has also heaped praise on the departing Greg Stewart and he feels that the attacker will be a huge loss. He said: “Greg Stewart has been a fantastic player for Kilmarnock since he arrived in the summer and he would be a huge loss.

“I’d love to see him stay.”

The club have not given up hope of bringing the former Dundee and Cowdenbeath man back for the rest of the season.

A source close to the Ayrshire side said: “Discussions are ongoing but we’ve certainly not given up hope that Greg might end up back at Rugby Park.

“He is Birmingham’s player so ultimately the decision rests with them.

“But if an agreement can be struck that would see him see out the season with us then we’d be delighted.”

Stewart has scored 8 goals and assisted 6 goals in his short time in Ayrshire and was a regular in the SPFL Team of the Week.

Fans have even set up an online fundraiser in order to try and raise funds to keep the talisman at Rugby Park.

Kilmarnock take on Forfar in the Scottish Cup at Rugby Park on January 19 and it could potentially be a new look starting 11 for the hosts.