LEE McCulloch became the first visiting manager to shut out Rangers this season then said he still had no intention of putting his name forward for the Kilmarnock job on a permanent basis.

The 37-year-old was afforded a warm welcome as he returned on William Hill Scottish Cup fifth-round duty to the ground where he spent eight successful years. He watched his team carry out his tactics to the letter, earning a goalless draw and a replay at Rugby Park in February 16, but said last night he “didn’t have a clue” whether he would still be in charge when that match comes round.

The likes of Billy Davies, Ally McCoist and former Huddersfield boss Lee Clark have all been linked with the post, which became vacant following the resignation of Gary Locke, but McCulloch said he still had no intention of throwing his hat in the ring. “No,” he said. “I spoke to the board last Saturday, midweek and Friday night. From my stance, nothing has really changed. I’m taking it a day at a time. I will enjoy my night and see where it takes us.

“Personally I was delighted with the reception I got, that was brilliant and a great touch. I didn’t know whether to wave, clap, or try to ignore it. But I was delighted with the way the team bounced back from a disappointing result. They responded so well.”

His opposite number Mark Warburton bemoaned his team’s lack of finishing on the day, but insisted his side had proved a point or two after their 3-1 defeat to St Johnstone in September. They hit the post and bar, while some uncharacteristic poor control from Martyn Waghorn cost them another opening.

“They [Kilmarnock] are a Premiership team,” said Warburton. “They will have a point to prove in the replay but our job is to go there, dominate the football, do what we did today and get the reward. We are a good team and if the luck does go our way we will get the rewards.”