Dalkeith hoping the return of Atai can help spark a surge up the table

GOALKEEPER Michael Atai is back at Dalkeith after Graham Lennie broke his hand in last weekend's draw with leaders Livingston and is likely to be out for the rest of the season.

"Michael was here a few years ago before he left to go to Bonnyrigg," said Thistle boss Willie Pearson after signing the custodian from Craigroyston.

Atai will go straight into the team for tomorrow's trip to Tranent, with Pearson hoping his side can stage a strong finish to the season. They are 11th in the table, having picked up just ten points from 12 games, but the manager sees better times ahead for the Midlothian club.

"We had a wee hiccup when Jock Landels left to become assistant manager to Jackie Myles at Arniston," added Pearson.

"But Jack Lynch, the new assistant manager, and Craig McManus, who has stepped up to player/coach, have been a breath of fresh air for the club. We've got 16 league games left and I am hopeful we can start climbing this league."

Elsewhere tomorrow, Livingston entertain Dunbar, Haddington are at home to Stoneyburn, Edinburgh United travel to Pumpherston and Spartans host Sauchie.