Greenock Telegraph | Sport | Gowser set to be back in town

Friday, 9th January, 2009

Published: Thursday, 13th November, 2008 12:30

Gowser set to be back in town

By Steven McArthur

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CAPPIELOW COMEBACK: Striker Paul McGowan, pictured playing for the Ton, may be in the Celtic XI line-up tonight.

CHAMPIONS Celtic come calling tonight with the likely prospect of having ex-Ton hero Paul McGowan in their starting 11.

Morton welcome a Celtic XI to Cappielow in an open-doors challenge match, and it seems certain that ‘Gowser’ will start up front.

Celtic reserve coach Willie McStay also told Telegraph Sport the team would feature some big name fringe players, who missed out on action in last night’s 3-0 win over Kilmarnock.

Said McStay: “My selection all depends on the Killie game, but there will be a sprinkling of fringe players. The first-team have been ‘non-contact’ training, so the most important thing with first-team players is that they avoid injury.

“With a game last night, and at the weekend, and the European games, it is a lot to take in. There is a balance to strike between match-fitness and availability.

“We hope to use the game to boost the fitness levels of some of the first-team players. Koki Mizuno, Ben Hutchison, Paul McGowan and local kid Mark Millar were in the squad for Kilmarnock, ‘Jo’ Doumbe could play a part, and we are awaiting paperwork for keeper Dominic Cervi, who played against Man U.

“We have played Spurs and Man U in recent weeks, and it is good to push the boys to the limit in terms of quality opposition. We want to test them in every aspect, and to grow up as players, so we want them to be playing in front of bigger crowds — and Cappielow is an opportunity for that.

“The reason we took the game, is that it is key to be playing in front of big crowds. There is a big Celtic support in Greenock, who may not always be able to get to Celtic Park, so it is a good chance for them to see the players put through their paces on their doorstep.

“Morton are doing well at the moment so their fans will back them, and it will provide great experience for younger ones.”

Across the dugouts from McStay tonight, Davie Irons has only one selection issue — the missing Dominic Shimmin. But the manager insists the match will allow good scope to give his full squad, Dom excluded, a run out.

He said: “We’ll be using everybody except Dom, and they’ll all get to play a part at some point. Ryan [Harding] will be involved too.

“It is a good challenge for us, and at the right time considering we have no game at the weekend. And it will certainly be a benefit to keep match practice up.

“I know about Paul, and I’ve seen him play in the first-team and for the reserves, but I’m not too worried about what they bring.

“The match means part of our weekly schedule needs juggled, taking place of training. Then on Saturday there will be the chance to watch Dunfermline looking ahead to the next league game, then I’ll take in the Challenge Cup on Sunday.”

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