Swankie closing in on return to Championship after 10-year wait

Arbroath manager Dick Campbell expects to give Gavin Swankie his first appearance in the second level of Scottish football in more than 10 years with the 35-year-old closing in on a return after a thigh problem.

Swankie played in the First Division with St Johnstone in May 2009 before spending a season in the top-flight with the Saints ahead of a move to Arbroath in 2011.

He has been missing since the Betfred Cup defeat from Alloa at the end of July.

Campbell said: “Gavin is getting stronger all the time and I am confident he will be back soon It is great that he will play again at this level and it is a reward for his hard work over the years.”

Meanwhile Campbell is looking forward to having Josh Campbell available for Friday night’s Championship fixture with Partick Thistle as he reckons that the on-loan Hibs midfielder is destined for the top.

The 19-year-old missed out on Saturday’s Tunnock’s Caramel Wafer Cup penalty kick win over Dundee United but he is back in the Lichties’ plans as they look to secure a third successive win in the Championship.

Boss Campbell said: “Josh has only made two substitute appearances for us and I would describe him as a very ‘interesting’ player.

“By that I mean when he gets on the ball, he stirs my interest and it will be good to have him free to face Partick Thistle.

“Josh has all the qualities required to be a top player. He needs experience and he will get that here.”

The Gayfield manager added: “We did well at the weekend but need to be very strong as we go looking for points on Friday.”

● Arbroath will welcome Clyde to Gayfield in the last 16 of the Tunnock’s Caramel Wafer Challenge Cup.

Raith Rovers also have a home tie but their opponents will be less familiar – Glenavon.

The ties will be played on the weekend of October 12-13.

Gavin Swankie last played in second tier in 2009.