Gordon Durie resists comeback

By CRAIG P STEWART
Published on 07/08/2012 00:00

East Fife manager Gordon Durie has been getting teased about a playing role since the draw for the first round of the Scottish Communities League Cup pitted him against former club Rangers.

Durie was an unused substitute against Arbroath last season when an injury crisis hit the side, then managed by John Robertson, and his players have been asking if he will be repeating his role against the Ibrox club.

“There has been a few of the boys asking if I will be picking myself,” said Durie, “but thankfully I won’t be as we would have to be a few bodies down before that.

“That was a one-off and, Rangers or not, I will not be repeating it as we have a good squad ready for this game.” Experienced striker Collin Samuel has joined on a short-term deal and everyone else at New Bayview is available, with Andy Cook back from work commitments in America, David White free of suspension and Robert Sloan and summer signing Paul McManus passed fit after missing out against Peterhead in the Ramsdens Cup ten days ago.

Former Rangers player Bob Malcolm will not feature as he is yet to win a deal at the club and trialists are not allowed in this competition.

Durie added: “This is a massive game for us, we have everyone available and there will be some boys disappointed at not being included. Going to Ibrox will not worry 
Collin – his experience as well as his ability will be a great help to us.”