Defender hopes Dundee can benefit from Gers' predicament
By Chris Galea. Last Updated: June 20, 2012 8:49pm
Matt Lockwood: Eyeing SPL chance with Dundee
Sky Bet
Dundee's player/assistant manager Matt Lockwood hopes the club can capitalise on Rangers' situation and play Scottish Premier League football next season.
SPL member clubs will vote on whether a newco Rangers
should be admitted to the league on July 4th, with either Dundee or relegated Dunfermline set to replace the Gers if voted out.
should be admitted to the league on July 4th, with either Dundee or relegated Dunfermline set to replace the Gers if voted out.
The experienced defender, who is poised to sign a new contract with the Dee, feels promotion this summer would be a huge boost after several near misses.
"It doesn't affect us directly at the moment, but it could do if the SPL clubs vote against Rangers being in the top flight next season then we might be in with a chance of taking their place," Lockwood told Sky Sports.
told Sky Sports.
"There are rumours that it would either be us, as runners-up in the First Division, or relegated Dunfermline would be reinstated.
"If Rangers were demoted then it could be fantastic outcome for Dundee because it would be great for both the club and the city to be playing in the SPL, with the local derbies against Dundee United back on the fixture list.
back on the fixture list.
"I've never played in one, but I've heard all about them and they sound extremely special."
Gap
Recently relegated Dunfermline couldn't bridge the gap between the SPL and First Division, but the former Leyton Orient full-back is keen to pit his wits against the likes of Celtic and Motherwell next term.
full-back is keen to pit his wits against the likes of Celtic and Motherwell next term.
"There is a gap because Dunfermline went up the year before last and came straight back down," he said.
"We played Kilmarnock in the cup last year and were beaten over the two legs, but we did manage to draw the home game.
in the cup last year and were beaten over the two legs, but we did manage to draw the home game.
"We also played Motherwell the year before, who gave us a real hiding and it certainly won't be the best way to prepare for the SPL because the manager has been working with a First Division budget.
"It would be tough because we've prepared for life in the First Division, but if we do happen to go up by default then we certainly wouldn't give up our SPL existence without a fight."
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