Airdrie United vs Brechin preview - Holmes missing for Airdrie

Derek Holmes will be missing for Airdrie against Brechin.

The striker had to be carried off on a stretcher after suffering an ankle injury against Stenhousemuir last Saturday and, subsequently, will miss out when City come to town.

Winger Alastair Woodburn was released earlier in the week to reduce Jimmy Boyle's options, but the Diamonds boss is looking forward to Saturday`s contest.

Boyle said: "This should be a great game as the two sides are itching to get the points on board that will move them into a position where they can challenge for a play-off place.

"A win will move us into the top half of the table, whereas Brechin will be want a win to get their season up and running."

Brechin are again without defender Gerry McLachlan.

The goalkeeper continues to be sidelined with a knee injury and, therefore, will watch on from the sidelines.

Manager Jim Weir also has doubts over two unnamed players, with decisions to be made on their participation at the last possible opportunity.

He said: "They are big players for us and I do not want them to miss out."

Weir believes Willie McLaren is Airdrie`s main danger, saying: "We cannot allow him to get on top of us during the game as, if he does, we will struggle to contain them.

"They have good strikers and Willie should be playing at a higher level so we need to stop him getting on the ball."