Raith boss Gary Locke has admitted he is keen to lure Rangers striker Ryan Hardie back to Stark’s Park on loan.
The Scotland Under-19 front man had a spell with Rovers last season, netting six times in 12 games for the Kirkcaldy side.
Hardie has spent the first part of this campaign farmed out to St Mirren but that deal ends soon.
Now, Locke may make a move for the teenager as he looks to bolster his striking options but much will depend on others heading out the Stark’s exit on loan.
The manager said: “Ryan Hardie is a player I have kept an eye on.
“I tried to sign him in the summer but he went to St Mirren.
“Obviously a lot would depend on finances but we might be able to do something if we could put a couple out on loan.
“We are defending really well at the moment but we could do with scoring more goals.
“Ryan did well here before but I am sure there will be plenty of interest in him.”
Raith’s match with Hibs at the weekend saw the welcome return to action of long-term injured duo, club captain Jason Thomson and defender Craig Barr.
Locke admitted he was delighted the pair had finally recovered from knee and groin problems respectively and their experience will be key in the weeks ahead.
However, unfortunately, there is still no light at the end of the tunnel for former Scotland midfielder Scott Robertson who has now seen the doctor at West Ham in a bid to get to the root of his ongoing pelvic problems.
Locke said: “We are not too badly fixed squad wise with the majority coming back.
“Scott Robertson is still out and everyone at the club really feels for him as he has had so many setbacks.
“I have been there myself as a player and I know how difficult it can be.
“He has had an operation, been to see a specialist and we are looking into every avenue to get him fit.
“He has now seen the doctor at West Ham and we will see how he responds to treatment.
“It is incredibly frustrating that the problem keeps recurring as Scott is a quality player but he has not been available to us this season.
“So hopefully this latest treatment will work.
“However, it was good to have Jason and Mango (Barr) back for the Hibs game.
“It has been a long slog for both of them but they have never let their heads drop and they deserve great credit for the way they have battled back.
“We have a fairly young team so it is great to have their experience at our disposal again.”
Meanwhile, Locke explained that Robbie Crawford left the club last week in a bid to find regular first-team football.
He added: “Robbie did well when he came in and was a great lad to work with so we were happy to give him a short-term deal.
“However, he found it difficult because players in his position such as Ross Callachan and Jordan Thompson were doing well.
“He just felt it was best that he tried to get something else but he left on great terms and we wish him all the best.”