St Mirren have injury problems ahead of their trip to Tynecastle to face William Hill Premiership pace-setters, Hearts, on Wednesday (kick-off 19.45).
Manager Stephen Robinson admitted to the media that it is the worst he has experienced.
Keanu Baccus, Mark O’Hara and Jonah Ayunga are long-term concerns while midfielder, Killian Phillips, has a shoulder tear and is due to see a specialist. He could need an operation.
Robinson said that if the player requires surgery then he could be out for three months.
Goalkeeper Shamal George and midfielder Liam Donnelly both came off injured in their 2-0 defeat at home to Falkirk on Saturday and they are doubtful for Tynecastle along with striker Dan Nlundulu.
Robinson admitted that the club’s Premier Sports Cup win over Celtic has taken its toll as they are playing catch-up games.
The highly-respected manager is trying to recruit fresh blood but is optimistic about the visit to Gorgie despite going four games without a win.
Robinson felt his men were “unfortunate” not to win their home game against Derek McInnes’ men on October 29 which ended in a 2-2 draw. Nlundulu scored after 28 minutes and Lawrence Shankland countered for Hearts. Miguel Freckleton added a second for The Buddies after 55 minutes and Claudio Braga levelled in 71 minutes.
Hearts go into the game after their 1-0 road win at Dundee on Sunday and top the table with 47 points from 21 matches. They have won four of their last five league fixtures and, overall, have scored 40 goals and let in 17.
St Mirren are tenth with 18 points from 20 games, and have won only one of their last five, drawing another and losing the other three, and they have netted on 16 occasions, the lowest total in the league. They have shipped 28 goals.
Hearts have confirmed that the match is live on PPV and fans can buy a pass for £12.
Other news, Beder, a mental health and suicide prevention charity, will feature as back-of-the-shirt sponsor for Hearts against St Mirren thanks to, what the club call, a generous donation of the sponsorship opportunity by FanHub.
Finally, Zander Clark has joined English League One side, Doncaster Rovers, on loan until the end of the season. They currently sit second-bottom of the 24-strong table.
ON THE BAWL: Stephen Robinson in the dugout at Hibs.
