Davie Irons today admitted that his first game in charge of Morton - a home clash with Irn-Bru Division One title outsiders St Johnstone - is a real baptism of fire.

And the new Cappielow chief has targeted a minimum one-point haul as he looks to plot the club's bid for safety.

He said: "It is a difficult game for us and, to a certain extent, myself and Derek Collins are being thrown in at the deep end. But, in the position we are in, what matters is results. The requirement for tomorrow is at least a draw.

"However, I have told the lads who are here that they start with a clean slate and before I can think about changing anything I must first make an assessment of our resources. I have been impressed with what I have seen so far, but now we have to translate that on to the field of play.

"I know how passionate the Morton support are and I am sure they will be keen to play a big part for us tomorrow. My priority is to pick the right team for this particular game."

But, although not under- estimating the size of the survival task ahead of him, the new Ton gaffer is relishing his maiden outing in control at Cappielow.

Irons said: "Morton is a real football club with great history and huge potential. The chairman is very ambitious and so am I. However, before we start thinking about that we must consolidate our league position.

"I mean no disrespect to Gretna, who have been a big part of my life over several years but, for me, coming to Morton is a step up."

Meanwhile, speculation linking Irons with a move for his former charges at Gretna - Kenny Deuchar and Gavin Skelton - were dismissed by the new Cappielow chief.

Irons said: "Obviously Kenny and Gavin are players that would improve any First Division side, but they are both under contract at Raydale."

Irons and Collins will be desperate for Ton legend Derek McInnes to leave empty-handed on his first visit to Cappielow as Saints manager.