Angelo Alessio has made it his mission to shake Kirk Broadfoot's hand when he returns to Rugby Park.
The former Kilmarnock defender now plies his trade at St Mirren, who the Ayrshire side will host tomorrow.
When he left, he was critical of Alessio's training methods, but the Italian boss understands that every player is entitled to their own opinions.
He said: "Broadfoot was a good player for Kilmarnock, it's important for me to shake his hand at the beginning of the game if I can.
"I will say 'hello', there is no hard feelings."
A familiar face on the other side is Simeon Jackson, who played for St Mirren last season.
He is yet to appear for Killie, being an unused substitute during their 2-1 win over Livingston last week.
But Alessio reckons Jackson is settling in well.
He said: "It's important for Simeon to understand our style of play.
"I think that he can help up front, the training is going well for him now.
"He played with the reserve team on Monday, he has been doing well."
And Alessio won't underestimate St Mirren, who are sitting ninth in the league with eight points.
A win for Killie will put them third in the league, with Motherwell and Aberdeen playing Rangers and Celtic respectively on Sunday.
Alessio said: "I have watched a lot of St Mirren, they play well.
"They are doing well on the park despite their results, creating chances to score.
"They are solid and compact, they have good players.
"In some games they deserved more than they got, they have been unlucky."
