Lee Bullen has warned Ayr to guard against a Scottish Cup shock as they head for in-form Peterhead.

United make the marathon trip to the north east this Saturday to face the Blue Toon – who are flying high in League Two.

And Bullen wants his men to be laser focused on the carrot of a place in the hat for the next round.

He told the Ayrshire Post: “We have to be mindful of the dangers that lie in wait – the cup is notorious for throwing up all kinds of results so we will be ready. Peterhead are going great guns at the top of their league and will be full of confidence.

“But we also know it presents an opportunity for us to go up there and progress if we approach the game in the right manner.

“There is potentially very good reward for the club in terms of reaching the next round so we know the importance of the game.”

Ayr have received a major boost with the news that on loan Anton Dowds can be included for the trip north.

However, fellow loan star Logan Chalmers will not make the journey with Dundee United holding back his ability to turn out in the cup for Ayr.

Frankie Musonda and Ben Dempsey are set to get minutes in the reserves today (Tuesday) as they build up to a possible comeback in the cup. Charlie Albinson will also be fit to return between the sticks on Saturday.

Bullen said: “It will be a huge boost to have all three available. Ben and Frankie have obviously been longer term absentees and having players of their calibre back among the group will be a major boost for everyone.

“The lads were all hurting after the Inverness result but we’ve had a good period to reset and lift the spirits again.

“Saturday gives us a good chance to break from the league and hopefully go up there and put on a good performance.”

George Stanger will be out for another five weeks after dislocating his shoulder at Inverness.