Deland returns to Hearts

Posted Sunday, January 02, 2011 by PA

East Fife have lost the services of Hearts full-back Mike Deland from their squad for the visit of Peterhead after his loan expired.

However, Hibernian striker Kurtis Byrne is still available as his temporary deal covers this weekend's game.

The Fifers were the Second Division's form team before the big freeze and manager John Robertson is looking for his men to extend their unbeaten run to five games.

Robertson said: "We were on a nice wee run and want to get going again. We have something to build on in 2011 and that is a great position to be in.

"As long as we keep enjoying doing what we are doing that is the main thing for me as opposed to setting any other targets."

Peterhead boss Neale Cooper is hopeful that Paul Emslie and Stuart Anderson will shake off a flu virus and be passed fit.

Defender Daniel Moore and striker Dennis Wyness are both out injured as Cooper waits nervously on a number of players struggling with flu.

He said "Paul has not been training fully this week because of a bug and Neil McVitie is really struggling with it as well.

"Hopefully having the extra 24 hours before this game kicks off will allow them both to be available."

After beating Airdrie United 5-1 in their last outing Cooper is hoping that his men now show consistency, adding: "East Fife are doing well just now, but if we play like we can we can win."