Airdrie United boss Kenny Black welcomes John Baird back to his squad for their crucial clash with Partick Thistle.

Posted Saturday, April 03, 2010 by PA

The striker has recently served a suspension, but will come into contention for an instant recall.

Midfielder Kevin McDonald is still serving a suspension of his own, while Frankie Lagana misses out with a hernia problem.

The Diamonds have won their last two home games to keep alive hopes of avoiding the drop with Black saying: "We told the players after we lost to Morton that we have to win games to stay in this league and I have to say they have responded positively.

"We are due a win over Thistle as they have beaten us three times in the league and also in the ALBA cup this season so this game would be a great time to put that right."

Partick Thistle are able to welcome back Patrick Boyle and Kris Doolan to their squad.

The duo have recently returned from loan spells at Clyde and their return provides a timely boost for Partick in the wake of skipper Alan Archibald being ruled out for the rest of the season with an injury.

Martyn Corrigan will also be absent as he nurses a knock, while Greg Shields left the club this week to return to America.

Assistant manager Iain Maxwell said: "The timing of Pat and Kris' return could not be better and I am sure they will be out to re-establish themselves in our first team.

"Airdrie have had a couple of decent results recently, however we won 5-2 on our last visit and a repeat of that would be great."