Mitchell likely to keep place in Bairns side after fine start

Published on Friday 9 May 2008 10:27

CHRISTOPHER MITCHELL'S flawless display in the 2-1 victory over Hearts on Monday night, allied to the call-up of both Scott Arfield and Tam Scobbie to the Scotland under 21 squad for next week's international against Norway, has added further credibility to Falkirk's reputation for developing talented young players.

Nineteen-year-old Mitchell was outstanding in what was his first start for the Bairns, while Arfield and Scobbie have now, along with 21-year-old Darren Barr, become established in John Hughes' first team squad.

"It was a very mature performance from Chris," reflected Yogi, "but it didn't surprise me as that's the type of player he is.

"He's the kind of lad who listens to everything you tell him in training and who responds to the advice you give him. He did very well against Saulius Mikoliunas, who is a very tricky player and he'll certainly be in contention for tomorrow's game against Inverness.

"There are one or two others who are close to making the breakthrough and maybe I'll give them their chance either tomorrow or in next week's game at Kilmarnock, but I'm conscious that there's still a lot to play for this season and my priority will be winning both games."

Falkirk still have a chance of leapfrogging Hearts into seventh place in the table, and such an achievement would set the seal on what has been a very satisfying season for Hughes and his players.

"All we were looking to do at the start of the season was to stay in the SPL," he said, "so to come within a whisker of making the top six was fantastic. Seventh place would do nicely but no matter what happens it's been a good season and I'm happy with the progress we've made as a club.

"I'm hoping there will be a carnival atmosphere tomorrow as it's our last home game and I'm looking for the fans to turn out in numbers for this one."

Hughes has no fresh injury worries for the visit of the Highlanders and he has hinted that the departing Jack Ross, who has signed a pre-contract agreement with St Mirren and who has recently been sidelined, may be given a chance to say goodbye to the Falkirk supporters.