If it is to be his last game at Balmoor, then Peterhead assistant manager Davie Nicholls wants to go out on a high.
Nicholls is taking the team at Peterhead while they search for a new manager, to replace Jim McInally following his resignation last weekend.
Blue Toon chairman Rodger Morrison said he hoped for a quick process and wanted to begin interviews early next week.
It means this afternoon’s game against Dunfermline could be the last time Nicholls walks out at Peterhead’s home, where he had worked alongside McInally for 11 years.
He has been in touch with the former boss during the week and is determined to deliver a fitting send-off.
“It’s the end of an era and for me personally, I’m just trying to do right by Jim,” said Nicholls. “I will help them out until they get a new manager.
“The players needed some continuity. They can’t have everyone going away at one time.
“From where we were when we took over, to where we are now, the new manager has got a perfect chance to get them up the league.
“It may be my last game here (Balmoor) and if it is, I’m determined to do my best for the club as I always do.
“I’ve learned off Jim over the years and I’ve put things in place for one day.”
Morrison has been happy for Nicholls to get on with his role this week – “he said if there’s anything I need to give him a shout” – and dialogue with his close friend McInally has been important.
“We still talk every day and will always do that,” said Nicholls. “It’s been part and parcel of life for the last 13 years.
“He’ll take a wee bit of time away and I’m sure he’ll be back at some point.”
Preparation for the game has not been ideal, with Nicholls forced to cancel training on Thursday night as the weather conditions made it very difficult for some players to travel to Dundee.
Paul Dixon will be out for the Blue Toon while Andy McDonald (Achilles) and Ryan Dow (hip) are hopeful of shaking off injury concerns to feature.
Dunfermline are the pace-setters in League One with a five-point advantage at the summit. Peterhead were able to grab a draw against them, however, in the reverse fixture.
“They’re a full-time team, train every day and for me there are no excuses – if you are a full-time team in League One and not challenging for the league then something has gone wrong,” said Nicholls.
“Part-time teams can have great seasons, like Arbroath last year, but it’s mainly full-time teams up at the top.
“Our boys will be prepared and it’s a good game for them to play in. I’m sure Dunfermline will bring a few supporters up.”
Peterhead: New boss will have talent to work with, says Ryan Dow after Jim McInally’s departure