Raith Rovers v Airdrie United Scottish Cup preview

Jan 25 2010 By Colin Paterson

VETERAN Paul Keegan says he wants the opportunity to fill Diarmuid O'Carroll's boots as Airdrie United go in search of Scottish Cup glory tonight.

The Diamonds look set to be without the Irish striker after he picked up an ankle injury in the 1-0 home league defeat to Inverness Caledonian Thistle on Saturday.

The 22-year-old will have an x-ray today to establish how much damage has been sustained.

Keegan told Advertiser Sport that he feels sorry for O'Carroll, who has performed well since his arrival in September, but is hoping for a top-team recall in Fife.

A last 16 visit of SPL big guns Aberdeen is the prize for the winners of this evening's fourth round tie at Stark's Park and Keegan is desperate to be involved.

He said: "I am disappointed for Diarmuid as we don't know how long he will be out for but it was nice to get out there playing again.

"It would be nice to get the call and start. It's difficult to come into a game as a substitute as you need to adapt to the pace of it but I feel motivated and ready to come into the team.

"Raith made a great start to the season but they have slipped down the table these past few weeks and when we went up there last month, their fans were on their backs the whole night.

"We are probably looking for the same sort of performance we produced up there last time, but looking to add that finishing touch which has been a factor for us this season."

Team news: Bobby Donnelly will be recalled to the starting line-up after missing the Inverness defeat through suspension. O'Carroll is expected to be out with David Nixon (ankle) definitely missing.

Last meeting - Tuesday, December 15: First Division - Raith 1 Airdrie 1.