Chris Kane has boosted hopes he will be fit for Dunfermline’s fast-approaching Premier Sports Cup kick-off.
The former St Johnstone striker has been notable by his absence in the Pars’ two pre-season friendlies so far.
He did not feature in either the 1-1 draw with Slavia Sofia during the training camp in Bulgaria or Saturday’s 1-0 loss to SPFL newcomers East Kilbride.
The 30-year-old has been plagued by calf issues since a lengthy absence due to a knee issue during his time with Saints.
It meant he had to sit out important games last season as he struggled with flare-ups.
He managed only one of the Fifers’ League Cup group games last summer – a 45-minute outing against Spartans.
And he also missed the Championship opener against Livingston.
In the end, however, he featured in 28 of 36 league games and netted 12 times in 34 appearances across the campaign to help the team avoid relegation to League One.
Neil Lennon hopeful on Kane fitness
Manager Neil Lennon indicated at the weekend he was hopeful of Kane joining the squad this week to work on his fitness at their temporary base at Stirling University.
And it is understood the influential marksman took part in the sessions on Tuesday, albeit with a reduced workload.
He will build resilience with the aim of being able to play a part when the competitive action gets under way later this month.
New signing Zeke Cameron, recruited on a two-year deal after he was freed by Dundee United, is another who has been struggling with pre-season ‘niggles’.
He has also been working on his return on the training pitches in the shadows of the Wallace Monument.
However, Sam Young, who has a back complaint, is still receiving treatment.
Dunfermline are scheduled to face Stirling Albion in a bounce game on Wednesday night before stepping up their preparations with friendlies against Kelty Hearts on Saturday and East Fife next Tuesday.
They then face a daunting trip to Tynecastle to take on Hearts in their Premier Sports Cup opener on July 12.
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