AIRDRIE will be without experienced striker Derek Holmes for tomorrow's visit of Brechin City.

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The 33-year-old sustained an ankle injury last weekend at Stenhousemuir and could be missing for up to three weeks.

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But keeper Paul McKane is expected to return following a sickness bug which kept him out of the trip to Larbert.

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Diamonds boss Jimmy Boyle wants his side to build on their five-match unbeaten run but anticipates a difficult afternoon at the coalface.

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He said: "The boys are working very hard but we need to start picking up wins on a consistent basis.

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"I feel that the team is heading in the right direction and there have been signs of that in the past few weeks.

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"We've also been helped by the fact that we have had a settled team and not had many injuries or suspensions.

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"We know it will be a tough game this weekend. Brechin will still have an impact on this league as they have quality players within their squad."

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The manager also heaped praise on Willie McLaren, the on-loan Hamilton Accies winger, following a record of three goals in his opening five games.

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He added: "Willie is a quality player. He creates and scores goals and is enjoying his football again because he is playing regularly."