Emms to act as mentor to Robertson's new partner

Posted: Tuesday 9th September 2008 | 18:26

GAIL EMMS believes Glasgow's Imogen Bankier could be the solution to one of British badminton's biggest headaches.

_{EMMS OF THE LINE: British badminton ace Gail Emms reflects on final swansong}

Athens mixed doubles silver medalist Emms retires after these Games and has vowed to do some matchmaking for long-term partner Nathan Robertson, who wants to continue to 2012.

Bankier, 20, is in Beijing soaking up the Olympic experience and Emms believes she could have what it takes to step into her shoes.

"Imogen is one of three girls coming through the ranks who could partner Nathan," she said.

"She's already had some mixed doubles success and she's a very talented player with a big future.

"Nathan says he is missing me already but he needs a new challenge. It's going to be a shock for him working with someone new after all these years with me.

"He's joked he might hold some X-Factor style auditions to find the right girl but it's great that we've got some much talent coming through and he's got options to choose from.

"But it's not always the best player, it's the person who has the right chemistry with Nathan that will get the chance."

Bankier has won the last two Scottish titles with partner Robert Blair and has already earned nearly 30 Scotland caps.

Robertson and Emms have enjoyed one of sport's closest partnership but failed to match their Athens success in Beijing - losing in the quarter-finals to Korea's Yongdae Lee and Hyojung Lee.

"We've played together for seven years so it will be tough for whoever comes in," added Emms.

"I'm going to be available to help the new partner, probably as a therapist because Nathan is an incredibly gifted player but also very demanding.

"I found him incredibly easy to play with from the start but it will be very scary for whoever steps into my shoes.

"I won't be a coach but I'll be there to help with the chemistry of the pair. In 2012 I'll probably feel like a jealous ex-girlfriend but I'm going to be there for Nathan and his new partner all the way."

MATTHEW DAVIS in Beijing