Inverness CT Preview

But now is a good time to play Inverness. Charlie Christie's men are not firing on all cylinders and Dennis Wyness will be missing for the Highlanders. Craig Dargo has been out for the last couple of games as well and has been struggling for form for a while. They have signed Gary McSwegan but we can handle him – surely?

Clarkson is doubtful

Stephen Craigan was part of the Northern Ireland side which defeated the mighty Spain in mid-week and our defence should be further strengthened by the return of Brian McLean. We probably wouldn't be too worried about going to Inverness now – we'd be confident of keeping them out. However at Fir Park is it different. We are obliged to attack and they will keep at least eight men behind the ball. We struggle to break them down and they've shown they know how to hit on the break. What can we do differently this time?

As obvious as it sounds, we have to keep the ball on the ground. Use the wings and try to get in behind them. Every game at Fir Park we make Darren Dods look like Fabio Cannavaro because all we do is launch the ball at his head. Maurice Malpas has seen our home defeats to Inverness and he must be expected to try something different. Whether that is playing three up or a player behind the front two doesn't matter – we change the formation or the tactics because our normal efforts against Inverness simply don't work. Maurice should be earning his money in games like this.

We're helped by having a reasonable squad available. McLean's return should allow Reynolds to play at his natural position allowing Paterson to push up to left wing. Richie can then switch to the right and Kevin McBride can take an overdue seat on the bench. That's only one option, we have a variety of choices with McGarry also pushing for a start. Clarkson is doubtful though after picking up a knock in the reserves.