McGlynn keen to tie down ‘smiling’ duo

John McGlynn has revealed Raith Rovers are in talks to secure wing duo Daniel Armstrong and Nathan Flanagan on longer deals.

Both penned short-term agreements on their arrival at Stark’s Park and will be out of contract in January.

Former Hearts youngster Flanagan joined after leaving St Mirren in the summer, while Armstrong signed last month following his departure from Wolves at the end of last season.

The pair have already made a huge impact at Rovers and McGlynn, who agreed a new deal with top scorer Kevin Nisbet this week, is eager to tie down the 21-year-olds on fresh terms.

He said: “Both Nathan Flanagan and Daniel Armstrong have contracts that run out in January, so we’re discussing things with them as we speak.

“I’m hopeful we can sort something out, for the same reason as Kevin signed.

“The guys have got the bit between their teeth and they want to go and make a real challenge to get out of this league.

“I think they’re enjoying their football right now, they’re playing with a smile on their face.”

Nisbet has extended his contract for another year to commit himself to Raith until May 2020.

And McGlynn believes Rovers have stolen a march on potential suitors who would have been eyeing a move for the 21-year-old following 18 goals in 21 appearances.

McGlynn added: “Within a couple of days of me coming in here, I could see Kevin was an all-round good striker.”

Raith, in second, continue their bid to close the 10-point gulf to runaway League One leaders Arbroath when they host Airdrie tomorrow.

Although he is wary of a resurgent Diamonds side under new manager Ian Murray, McGlynn is targeting the victory that will ensure Rovers keep on the coat-tails of Arbroath.

He said: “They’re getting results and climbing the table and of course they will be seeing this as an opportunity to cut the gap between us and them.

“We see it as an opportunity to get three points and make that gap even bigger and to try to close the gap on Arbroath.”