MARK McLAUGHLIN has declared himself ready to play through the pain barrier for Morton at Falkirk tomorrow.

The veteran powerhouse stopper was crocked halfway through the Greenock club's shock defeat at home to Dumbarton a fortnight back with a muscle strain.

But he returned to training today and is desperate to face Steven Pressley's men.

With only one point from their last six, the Cappielow men have suffered a negative reaction to their wins on the spin over promotion rivals Partick and Dunfermline and Marko is determined to play his part in getting the Ton title charge back on track.

The 37-year-old said: "I don't know if there was a bit of mental fatigue after the wins over Thistle and Dunfermline, but the bottom line is we need to start winning again. Falkirk beat us at their place in our first game with them, so they will fancy their chances.

"But this is a huge game for us and we have to rise to the challenge."

McLaughlin has no doubt Bairns top scorer Lyle Taylor will represent a clear and present danger to his side's hopes.

He said: "Taylor has 17 goals already. So whoever is playing at centre-back for us will have a tough afternoon. But I love the challenge of playing against these young guys."

Meanwhile, Morton boss Allan Moore was awarded the Irn-Bru Phenomenal First Division manager of the month award for December.

The Cappielow gaffer received the gong after his side hit top of the table last month thanks to victories over Partick Thistle and Dunfermline Athletic.