John McGlynn makes Raith Rovers return after illness

The manager made his first appearance at Stark’s Park since mid-October in the run up to the Fife derby last week as he continues his rehabilitation after surgery.

A slight infection has pushed back his return to full-time work, but the 58-year-old was in attendance during Saturday’s 2-2 draw, albeit on a seat in the stand, and was able to give the team talk before kick-off.

“It's good to see him back and working with the boys,” Smith, also 58, said.

“He said he was a wee bit more chilled out watching the game from the stand, so that was ideal for him, just being able to call down on the phone on occasion.

“He's been in constant contact obviously, but it was great to have him back for a couple of days at the stadium this week.

“He gave the team talk before the match and he's getting stronger week by week.

“He's had a difficult seven weeks and he's desperate to get back to work full-time.

“It'll be great for all the players and the staff to finally get him back.”

McGlynn and Smith will now ready their squad for Friday night’s away trip to Ayr, with the Championship match between the two sides being shown live on the BBC Scotland channel.

The Somerset Park side will prove stiff opposition for Rovers, with both teams on equal points in the Championship table.

Smith says it’s a game he’s looking forward to.

"I love a night game,” he said.

"A Friday night under the lights is always great, and it will be good for the players and the club to be live on TV.

“We know it’s not going to be easy.

"Dunfermline went down to Somerset Park earlier in the season and it was a 0-0 draw. It will be a very difficult game.

"Ayr are a well-established team in this Championship.

“They've signed some good players and they've been building a really strong squad for three or four years.

“They've done fantastically well because I think every year they've finished in the top four.

“It's not going to be an easy place to go to, but we'll be going there with confidence and giving it our best shot.

“Hopefully, we can come away with the three points.”