Duo back for Killie
Gary Locke welcomes back midfielder Sammy Clingan and forward Rory McKenzie into the Kilmarnock squad for the home game against Motherwell on Saturday after both recovered from tendonitis.
However, defender Manuel Pascali and midfielder Craig Slater are suspended for the visit of the Steelmen in the Scottish Premiership.
Midfielder David Syme is in contention as Locke looks to start his tenure as permanent Killie boss with a victory.
Locke admits some people may still think of him as Mr Hearts - but he is only thinking about making a name for himself at Rugby Park.
The 39-year-old former Jambos captain and boss was axed by the club he supported as a boy last summer, despite leading Hearts through their administration hell.
But now he is in charge of the side he ended his playing days with, Locke is determined to change people's perception of him.
The new boss - who has steered Killie to the brink of a top-six slot after posting just one defeat from seven games in charge - said: "People might see me as being Mr Hearts but I've played and coached here before, so without a doubt I want to build that kind of reputation with Kilmarnock.
"I can't help the way people perceive me but I'm a professional. Wherever I am, whoever I work for, I give it my best shot.
"I had seven great years as a player here. I gave everything I had as a player and will do the same as manager.
"My only focus is on Kilmarnock and doing as best as I can. I want to help take this club forward.
"I went back to Tynecastle as a player and it was no big deal. I will do it again next season but it will be just like another game. The only thing that matters is the three points."
Motherwell defender Simon Ramsden returns from suspension.
Defender Steven Hammell has recovered from his groin injury and midfielder Paul Lawson is back from a calf complaint but the game comes too soon for both.
Midfielder Iain Vigurs (sciatic nerve) remains on the sidelines.
Stephen Pearson extended his contract at Motherwell and then vowed to help the Fir Park club secure their Scottish Premiership future.
The 32-year-old midfielder, who returned for a second spell with the Steelmen in January, penned a new deal which will see him stay with Well until the summer of 2017, and during that time he wants to remain in the top flight.
He said: "I am delighted to commit myself to another two years but obviously the focus is making sure Motherwell stay in the Scottish Premiership.
"That is the aim for everyone at the club and hopefully we can do that over the coming weeks."
Source: PA
