TOWERING defender Jean-Yves M’Voto has been praised by Allan Johnston – who has warned his stars that no-one is guaranteed to play.

The former France under-19 international, 29, hadn’t started for the Pars since September’s Irn-Bru Cup win at Buckie Thistle before being pitched in to the New Year derby with Falkirk.

He was given his chance due to the suspension of captain Callum Morris and despite having only featured a further twice in between those games – both as a substitute in league and cup matches with the Bairns at the Falkirk Stadium – produced an excellent display alongside Lee Ashcroft.

Although Morris was free from a ban for the weekend win at Dumbarton, Johnston retained faith in M’Voto as Athletic earned another three points and clean sheet.

It leaves the Dunfermline boss with a welcome selection dilemma for this afternoon’s visit of Dundee United, and he said: “We’ve got good options on the bench and you look at the impact Jean’s made; he’s come in, been solid, has been winning headers and defending really well.

“It’s great to see that because it’’s hard when you’re not playing. He’s got his head down and has worked hard so that when he’s got his chance, he was there to take it. That’s all you can ask players to do.

“Nobody’s guaranteed (to play). It’s a long season; everybody’s got to fight for their place so it’s good to have that competition and I’m sure it will drive us forward.

“Callum’s been one of our best players this season as well so it’s great when you’ve got that type of competition.

“The strikers have been scoring lately as well, we’ve got good strikers to come on and Lee Robinson’s come in and had two clean sheets. He’s got a lot of confidence, has always been naturally fit and is a good addition to the squad.”

Johnston was also full of praise for Sons matchwinner Joe Cardle, whose sensational strike moved his goal tally into double figures for the campaign, and believes he is returning to top form.

“It’s an unbelievable finish,” he added.

“He’s come in and it’s a great shot – there’s no chance the keeper’s saving that, no matter who’s in the goal. It’s dipped right under the crossbar and Joe’s capable of that.

“He’s been involved in goals in the last couple of weeks setting people up but a big part of his game is scoring goals as well so it’s good to see him back on the scoresheet.”