Stranraer vs Stenhousemuir preview - Stirling back in the fray

League One leaders Stranraer welcome back Stephen Stirling after a knock when they face Stenhousemuir at Stair Park.

The Blues are hopeful that Willie Gibson will return after a calf knock, however Scott Robertson remains absent with a knee injury and Sam McCloskey's ankle problem keeps him sidelined.

Manager Stephen Aitken said: "The last few weeks have been great. Going to Dunfermline and winning to go top of the league was a nice Christmas present.

"Stenhousemuir lost to Brechin last week but they were handicapped by losing a player to a red card and a penalty early on. How well they played with 10 men is a warning to us."

Stenhousemuir are without skipper Ross McMillan following his dismissal in the 2-0 defeat from Brechin, with a knee injury ruling out Stewart Greacen while Martin Grehan is also a doubt.

Warriors manager Scott Booth said: "We have had a number of refereeing decisions go against us recently but we cannot feel sorry for ourselves.

"We did well after Ross' dismissal last weekend and if we had 11 I am sure that we would have won.

"Our performance levels have improved over the last month and we will need an improvement against a good Stranraer side. However, if we play like we can then we can get the three points."