'You must make the most of it' - Raith Rovers boss Ian Murray understands boost Sam Stanton has had at news he is to become a dad

Ex-Hibs midfielder Stanton, whose girlfriend Mhairi is expecting their first child together, has been in prolific goal-scoring form this season, netting four goals, and Murray says he can relate to happiness in a player’s family life translating to fine form on the pitch.

“I got a boost when I first discovered I was going to become a parent,” Murray, who has boys Lewis, 12, and Owen, eight, told the Fife Free Press.

“It’s obviously a big moment for anybody regardless of profession, but I think for footballers it does give you a boost because it’s a very short career, as everybody knows, so you kind of realise that and you mature a bit quicker and realise that your career’s not going to go on forever.

“You’ve got to try and make the most of it.

“My oldest boy is now football-daft. The younger one's not quite there yet.”

Meanwhile, confirmation has been given of the date for Raith’s upcoming Scottish Cup third-round home tie against Auchinleck Talbot.

The fixture will be played at Stark’s Park on Saturday, November 26, with a 3pm kick-off.

Murray’s Kirkcaldy outfit will be warm favourites to see off a Talbot side plying their trade in the West of Scotland Football League Premier Division.

Talbot, record 14-time Scottish Junior Cup winners, are currently 12th in their division.