Double blow for Locke’s men as pair left facing surgery

Raith Rovers have been dealt a double blow with the news that Scott Robertson and Craig Barr need operations to cure pelvic problems.

The experienced duo have been struggling since the start of the season and it has now been decided that surgery is the best course of treatment for both of them.

However, that means Stark’s Park boss Gary Locke will be without midfielder Robertson and centre-half Barr for several weeks.

The manager said: “Craig had a scan and it looks like he’s going to have to get an op. Scott went for a scan the other day as well and he needs an operation.

“We’re hopeful it might be about six to 10 weeks for Scott and then he’ll be back. I think Mango (Barr) will be a bit longer than that.

“It’s frustrating for the boys themselves because they’re really keen to get back involved.

“I’ve been there myself, it’s a frustrating period for them, but it’s just important they keep their heads up and the other boys in the squad lift their spirits.”

Meanwhile, Locke admits that former Hearts star Rudi Skacel is close to regaining full sharpness.

The 37-year-old only signed for Rovers last month and has been restricted to substitute appearances in the Championship so far, coming off the bench once again on Saturday against Dunfermline.

However, his manager has seen signs that Skacel is close to being back to his best and he also praised the player’s overall influence on and off the pitch.

Locke said: “His fitness is getting better, it’s match time he needs and sharpness in terms of the games.

“He’s been coming on for 25 minutes or half an hour and I think you can see he does have a steadying influence on the team when he comes on.

“Just his presence on the training pitch and around the place is a big help to us. Once we get him fully fit, I’m hopeful the goals will start coming as well.”

Scott Robertson will be out for several weeks.