East Fife vs Queen of South preview - Campbell missing for Fifers

East Fife entertain table-topping Queen of the South looking for their first win in seven games but they will need to secure it without defender Steven Campbell (ankle).

Scott Durie misses out through suspension, with Gareth Wardlaw still not yet ready to return to first-team action after illness.

New Bayview boss Billy Brown said: "Queen of the South are strong on the pitch and off it where my former player Allan Johnston has done a great job, but we will be looking to upset them.

"We had a good run of results that took us into a play-off place and need to get back to form as soon as possible. It is a big ask to beat them but we will be aiming for the win."

Runaway leaders Queen of the South travel with winger Willie Gibson (ankle) in their squad for the first time since Boxing Day.

New striker signing Michael Paton is also added to the party.

Midfielder Ian McShane remains sidelined with a hip problem, with player-manager Allan Johnston telling his men not to be lured in by the Fifers' six-game run without a win.

Johnston explained: "The reports we have on East Fife have all said the same thing in that their performances have been a lot better than the results they have picked up.

"They may have slipped down the table but any team that can draw with Alloa and Brechin City must have something about them.

"They gave us a tough afternoon at their place in August and will do so again in this one."