Dunfermline vs Partick preview - Pars aim to put off-field struggles to one side

Financially-troubled Dunfermline could welcome back striker Andy Kirk to their ranks against Partick after the Northern Ireland international returned to training on Friday.

Kirk missed last Saturday's defeat to Morton with a knock but is set to be back in contention, although the Pars will again be without Stephen Jordan (thigh), Josh Falkingham and Shaun Byrne (both ankle) - with the game taking place just two days after the East End Park players received only 20% of their wages.

Assistant manager Gerry McCabe said: "We were the better side against Morton last weekend in the first half before a missed penalty knocked the wind out of us. That performance was full of commitment and I am sure this one will be as well."

"We will be looking to take something from this game."

First Division title chasers Partick will be without suspended pair Paul Paton and Hugh Murray as they head to third-placed Dunfermline.

Interim manager Alan Archibald is poised to don his boots for the first time since he took over from Jackie McNamara four weeks ago. Striker Steven Lawless is a doubt after being struck by illness

Archibald said: "I have not fully worked out what our team will be but playing myself is an option.

"Whoever goes out and plays will need to put any feelings for what the Dunfermline players are suffering to one side and get the three points. Dunfermline showed last week against Morton that they are still fighting for promotion and they were very unlucky to be behind at the interval."