For a young attacker, development can stall quickly on the bench. Curtis reportedly had only limited league exposure before heading to Rugby Park, and the move appears to have given him exactly what he needed - responsibility, rhythm and the chance to make mistakes without disappearing from view.
Clarke’s line cut to the heart of it: “Sometimes that can involve making big decisions. For Findlay to leave Rangers in January and go to Kilmarnock, and then you have the ability to back up that decision, things can work in your favour.”
That is the key. Plenty of prospects go on loan. Fewer turn it into momentum.
The report says Curtis scored five goals in 14 appearances, with four arriving in his final five games, as Kilmarnock pulled clear of danger. Just as important, he seems to have become a trusted figure in meaningful matches.
Neil McCann did not hide his delight. “The staff, players and I are absolutely delighted with this hugely positive news,” he said. McCann added: “He deserves this recognition for the levels he's shown while on loan here.”
There is a wider message in that praise. Kilmarnock gave Curtis a stage, and Curtis reportedly seized it.
If this selection is confirmed, it would feel like more than a reward for a strong spring. It would be an endorsement of a pathway - leave the comfort zone, play senior football, force the issue.
Now the next step is the hardest one. Curtis appears to have opened the door; staying in Clarke’s plans, and translating this breakthrough into next season, is the storyline to watch.