Dunfermline Athletic travel to North Lanarkshire on Tuesday night for this rescheduled league fixture, with the match having been postponed due to international commitments involving several Pars players.
Following Friday’s impressive 2-0 victory over Raith Rovers, manager Neil Lennon is keen to maintain momentum, though he’s cautious about reading too much into single performances. “We beat Arbroath 5-0 and then didn’t win a game for four,” he was quick to point out, adding that the focus remains on consistency rather than building from one result.
Neil acknowledges that Airdrieonians, despite their current league position at the bottom, will present a stern test. “We’ve got a tough game away at Airdrie on Tuesday. It would be great to add another win, but it won’t be easy,” he said.
Squad Rotation and Fresh Legs
The manager has options to rotate his squad for the trip to Airdrie. Alfons Amade (pictured below) and John Tod were rested against Raith Rovers on Friday and are available to feature, giving the gaffer flexibility in his approach. “We’ve got players who can come in fresh. So, that will give us something to think about as well.”
Injury Update
Kyle Benedictus remains sidelined following his hamstring injury sustained against Partick Thistle on 27th September. The prognosis is concerning, with surgery a possibility. “It’s going to be a while, yeah. I mean, we’re talking months,” Neil confirmed.
The Pars continue to be without Zak Rudden and Josh Cooper, but there is positive news with Peruvian midfielder Jefferson Caceres set to return to the squad after completing a two-match suspension following his red card against Partick Thistle.
Emerging Talents
Despite the injury challenges, Neil praised the performances of those stepping up to fill the void. He highlighted the recent display of Keith Bray (pictured above), noting he is “really finding his feet now” even when deployed slightly out of position.
Jeremiah Chilokoa-Mullen (pictured below) also caught the manager’s attention following a demanding week involving Scotland U21 international duty and a call in to train with the full Scotland squad. The central defender impressed the boss on Friday. “He was foot perfect. He has to defend first and then do all the coming out with the ball, all that type of stuff second. His defence and diligence Friday night was superb.”
Looking ahead, Neil Lennon sees significant potential in the 21 year-old. “I’m delighted he’s been away with Scotland. He’s a stick on for me, but he’s a young player. I think he needs more experience, more games and we could have a hell of a player on our hands with him.”
