Callachan revelling in Raith form resurgence

Callachan suffered a dislocated shoulder in a freak accident in August but has been a mainstay in the team since returning to the starting 11 in December.

Since then a packed schedule has taken its toll on the 22-year-old – he had to miss training on Tuesday due to tightness in his hamstrings – but he is now starting to feel good about his game again after a self-confessed dip.

“There was a wee spell when we were winning games, but I was going through a rough patch,” he said.

“I’m quite picky and I always want to do the best I can, and I wasn’t playing as well as I thought I could.

“But I’m through that, I’m back playing how I know I can play, feeling really confident and kicking on now.”

Callachan produced one of his best displays for Raith at Cappielow on Saturday playing in a more advanced midfield role alongside defensive protectors Lewis Toshney and Iain Davidson.

It was no surprise to see the young midfielder featured in the SPFL’s Team of the Week.

“It helps me get forward a bit more, and gives me a wee licence when I know I’ve got those two at the back to bail me out defensively,” he said.

“My strengths are pressing high up the park and driving forward with the ball, and that’s what I’m encouraged to do.”

Key to Callachan’s form has been the backing of manager Ray McKinnon, who has continued to show faith in him.

“When you’ve got a manager that believes in you and keeps playing you that’s all you need,” he said.

“Being quite young sometimes my form does dip but it’s just about consistently working hard.

“As long as I go into each game and focus on working hard I just find that everything falls into place.”

Callachan is enjoying the team’s current run of form that has taken them to the brink of play-off qualification.

“I’ve never experienced anything like it,” he said.

“It’s exciting that the season might be going on a bit longer, and we’ve got something to push for.

“Everyone is helping each other and driving each other on.

“We’re so resolute and when we go ahead in games, we don’t feel like we’re going to get beat.”

Raith welcome champions-elect Rangers to Stark’s Park on Saturday and Callachan insists the hosts will show no fear.

“We’re going into every game looking to win, so why not go and do it against Rangers?,” he added.