FOX IN THE BOX

Jan 16 2008 Ayrshire Post

AYR UNITED have swooped for Scotland under 20 keeper Scott Fox to dig them out of a defensive crisis.

The Celtic youth star has signed a loan deal until the end of the season after Mark McGeown was ruled out with a back injury.

With only teenager Fraser Stewart as cover, boss Brian Reid was forced to send out an SOS for a replacement.

Fox, 20, who spent the first half of the season on loan at East Fife, will go straight into the team for Saturday’s visit of Alloa.

He played for Scotland U20s in last summer’s World Cup in Canada. And he turned out for Ayr in a practice match against Partick Thistle at Somerset on Monday evening.

Reid, who is now searching for a right back, said: “Scott comes with a good pedigree and I am very pleased to have got him.

“He played for 45 minutes against Partick and looked very competent although he didn’t have too much to do.

“However, we are still trying to bring in two or three more and my first target is a right back as we are light in that area.”

Reid tried to use his contacts at former club Rangers to bring in players on loan.

He revealed: “They are not letting anyone go at the moment but I’m hoping I’m first on their list.

“I have spoken non stop to clubs everywhere but it’s not easy persuading full-time players to come to a part-time club.”

Assistant boss Scott McKenzie has even looked out his boots and could be pressed into action if needed.

Reid said: “Scott is still a decent player and can play right-back. He has taken part in a couple of bounce games and looked sharp.

“It would be a last resort to play him, but I wouldn’t rule it out.”

David Lowing misses Saturday with the first of a two match ban. Recent signing Willie Easton from Dundee United is set to take his place.

Martyn Campbell is back training with the physio but won’t be ready for the weekend.

Reid said: “There are only 16 games to go so we need to start winning quickly. We need to build on the good home performance against Berwick when we won 4-0.”

Alloa ended a four game losing streak by beating Berwick 2-1 and currently sit fourth top.

Ayr’s need for points is totally different as they battle to avoid the relegation play-offs.

They trail third bottom Cowdenbeath by three points but have played a game more and have won only once in the last ten outings.