Falkirk vs Queen of South preview - Duo in Bairns frame

Falkirk look set to give new recruits Owain Tudur-Jones and David Smith their first outings when managerless Queen of the South visit the Falkirk Stadium.

The Bairns are again without Kieran Duffie, who has a foot injury, and Lewis Small, who has a shoulder problem, with Thomas Grant still not available following illness.

Technical director Alex Smith reckons that the absence of a manager will not affect their opponents.

He said: "They will be disappointed at Jim McIntyre heading for Ross County, however James Fowler, who has stepped in, has the potential to be a good manager.

"He will be out to show that so we are well warned."

Queen's interim manager Fowler is free of the suspension that saw him miss the league defeat against Rangers.

However, he has yet to decide on a playing or a touchline role at the Falkirk Stadium.

Ian McShane is available after injury, but Fowler picks his first side without the injured Chris Mitchell (back), Paul Burns (knee), Mark Kerr (hamstring), Stephen McKenna (hip) and Michael Paton (hamstring).

Fowler said: "It was a difficult start to the week with Jim leaving, however the players have buckled down. Their concentration over the last couple of days has been terrific.

"I need to decide whether to include myself and it is a tough choice."