Fitness concerns over Raith stalwart

Raith Rovers have major concerns over the fitness of stalwart Ross Matthews.

The 25-year-old recently penned a new three-year deal to commit himself to his only senior club until 2024.

However, the midfielder, who made his 200th appearance for Rovers in November, has been sidelined since being substituted in the 3-2 victory over Hearts at Tynecastle three weeks ago.

An ankle problem has ruled Matthews out of Raith’s last four outings as the Stark’s Park men have moved into second in the Championship.

But manager John Mcglynn is hopeful he has enough options at the heart of his side to make up for the loss of the playmaker.

He said: “Ross Matthews is struggling with an Achilles tendon injury, which has not really got any better.

“He’s one that’s going to be out for a little bit longer.

“But we’ve got Regan Hendry back from suspension, we’ve brought in Adam King and we’ve got Brad Spencer, so we’ve got cover.”

Matthews set his sights on a promotion push after signing his new bumper deal.

“I want success over the next three years,” he said.

“I don’t want to just sit here in the Championship. I want to be part of a team which challenges to be up there and trying to get promoted.

“I think we have seen that desire from the start of this season.

“Everyone maybe expected us to battle to stay up, maybe get relegated – but we’ve built a good squad here and I want to be part of that going forward. I feel like we’ve got a chance to do something special.”