Campbell has options for Lichties’ cup clash with minnows Darvel

Arbroath take on Darvel in the Scottish Cup tomorrow – and Dick Campbell will have plenty to ponder when it comes to his team selection for the Gayfield clash.

Although the Ayrshire side sit four leagues beneath the Lichties, they have already caused two upsets; beating League Two Stranraer, then Brechin City in previous rounds, so it will not be a game to take lightly.

The Lichties have crucial games coming up in the next few weeks against fellow Championship contenders.

Covid permitting, Campbell should have a full squad to choose from this weekend.

But will he shuffle his pack a little bit to protect his key men or continue to go with his strongest line-up?

Courier Sport takes a look at the options at his disposal.

Goalkeeper

Derek Gaston has played every minute of the league campaign so far, while Calum Antell has only featured three times in the

League and Challenge cups at the start of the season.

Gaston has proven to be a rock at the back and has made crucial saves when called upon. For that reason, he should stay in the team this weekend. Defence

This is an area where Arbroath don’t have too much room for manoeuvre.

Jason Thomson, Ricky Little, Thomas O’brien, Colin Hamilton – that backline has not changed too much at all this season.

Liam Henderson has proved a reliable centreback replacement for

O’brien or Little. While David Gold can slot in at right-back, if required.

Henderson may get the chance of some game time, but it’s likely Campbell will stick to his relied-upon back four.

Midfield

With Covid and injuries this season, Arbroath’s midfield has changed quite a bit. But there are a number of players that can stand in and do not weaken the side.

Against Raith they went with a four of Scott Stewart, Nicky Low, Chris Hamilton and Henderson.

Star man Michael Mckenna will be available once more, while James Craigen and David Gold are equally able to come into the side.

Attack

The Lichties have a good pool of resource in attack. Luke Donnelly and Jack Hamilton led the line last weekend.

Both Hamilton and Craig Wighton are eligible for the cup run too, which gives Campbell more options.

Bobby Linn could play a role, either wide on the right or up top.

TEAM SELECTION: Arbroath boss Dick Campbell could decide to rest players for tomorrow’s Scottish Cup tie with Darvel at Gayfield.