Dunfermline FC boss Jim McIntyre has every confidence in Chris Higgins

Dunfermline manager Jim McIntyre may have centre-backs Kevin Rutkiewicz and Andy Dowie available to him for the upcoming visit of Morton.

Dowie has been out for several weeks and Rutkiewicz missed the trip to Dumfries last weekend, but both are now rated in the 50/50 category for a comeback at East End Park.

McIntyre said, “Neil McGregor and Nick Phinn are definitely out for us but Kevin and Andy both have a 50/50 chance, which is an improvement from last week.”

Whatever happens, if Chris Higgins is the man who the Pars boss turns to partner Alex Keddie for a second successive weekend, he will have every confidence in him.

He stated, “Higgy is a fantastic pro. He did really well at the start of the season before losing his place, but his attitude since then has been exemplary and he did a great job for us last week.”

McIntyre is also pleased with the impact Martin Hardie is having on his team.

He said, “He’s settled in well. After being out for a long time he’s understandably chasing his fitness, but as he gets more minutes into him he’ll get better and better.”