Kirkwood's call

SCOTTISH FOOTBALL

Billy Kirkwood, the Dundee United manager, is demanding total commitment and concentration as his team attempt to avoid relegation against Celtic today.

Kirkwood knows that even if they beat the Scottish Cup finalists at Tannadice, they could still be relegated if Aberdeen, who are two points ahead, win at Falkirk.

But despite the temptation to monitor the Falkirk scoreline, Kirkwood stressed: "Unfortunately our destiny is not in our own hands, but we can't afford to worry about that, we must concentrate on doing our own thing and winning our own game.''

Three of United's key players - Billy McKinlay, Dave Bowman and Brian Welsh - are suspended although the defender Gordon Petric is available again after serving his ban.

The Celtic striker Willie Falconer is also banned while Andy Walker misses the match with an ankle injury and Simon Donnelly and John Collins are both doubtful.

Aberdeen will be without four players as they try to win their third successive match and secure Premier Division status.

Billy Dodds, who has scored three goals in the last two games, is suspended along with Peter Hetherstone and Paul Kane while the striker Eoin Jess has a knee ligament injury.

Hearts, who are at home to Motherwell, will be involved in a relegation play-off if they lose. Tommy Coyne is suspended for Motherwell, who have already secured a Uefa Cup place.