Livingston Football Club manager Marvin Bartley has declared that keeping the West Lothian side in the Scottish Premiership this season would be the greatest achievement of his career. The club faces a daunting challenge, currently sitting nine points adrift at the foot of the table with only four games remaining, making their fight against relegation a defining moment for the team and its new manager.

The Lions are set to host Aberdeen on Friday at 19:45 BST, knowing that relegation could be confirmed this weekend if 11th-placed Kilmarnock secures a better result against Dundee United on Saturday. Despite the precarious position, Livingston received a crucial boost last weekend by ending a long winless streak with a vital victory over St Mirren, marking only their second Premiership win of the current campaign.

Bartley, who took the helm from David Martindale in February, draws parallels between Livingston's current predicament and his playing days at Bournemouth. In the 2008-09 season, he was part of a squad that successfully avoided relegation from England's fourth tier, even after suffering a significant 17-point deduction due to the club entering administration. This past experience fuels his belief in overcoming adversity.

The manager insists his attention remains solely on the upcoming fixture against Aberdeen, despite the looming threat of relegation. He acknowledged the positive impact of Aberdeen's new manager, Stephen Robinson, noting tactical changes and improved attacking movement from the visitors, who have won their past two games. Bartley stated, "He's put his own stamp on the team. They've got really good players and they're in a good place."

While four wins from their remaining matches could theoretically offer a route to safety, Bartley admits he isn't focused on calculating potential outcomes. "No idea if that would be enough," he added, emphasizing, "All we can do is try to win the next game." Midfielder Macauley Tait echoed the sentiment, expressing relief and renewed spirits after last weekend's win, stating, "We'd almost forgotten that feeling. It's been tough for us, the staff and the fans, so hopefully we can finish on a positive."