Kennedy backing for crocked defender

John Kennedy will help Marcus Fraser every step of the way as he recovers from cruciate ligament surgery.

The 18-year-old defender suffered the injury that every player dreads during the 2-0 win SFA Youth Cup win over Aberdeen on February 24 and will watch tonight’s final against Dunfermline from the stand at Hampden.

Fraser has had surgery on the injury with Kennedy hoping to see the defender back at his best towards the end of the year.

“The surgery has gone well and I’m sure that Marcus will be back fighting fit as soon as he can,” youth coach Kennedy said. “He’s the type that we probably have to hold the reigns on because he’s so eager to push himself back.

“We’ll make sure that he’s right, his head won’t go down, he’s not that type of character.

“He was told that he’ll be out for between six and nine months depending on how his rehab goes, it’s going to be nearer Christmas before he’s fully back with match sharpness. He’ll be fine, we’re not too concerned, the surgery went well, hopefully it’ll be pretty straight forward from here on in.”

Kennedy added: “The diagnosis was pretty straightforward, he’s had surgery to repair the damage, my injury was more complex. Hopefully Marcus’ rehab goes well but with the character he is that won’t be a problem.

“He’ll go through spells when he’s a bit down, there will be small setbacks along the way but we’ll all help him through that.

“Marcus is a tough character, he’s the captain of the team and we miss him. In the dressing room and on the pitch he has the respect of the players and coaches and remains a big part of our squad.”