“Barry will be in a bit of discomfort for a wee while, but the positive news is that there is no bone damage, which sets both ours and the player’s minds at ease,” said boss Gordon Chisholm.

“It may be the case that we’ll need to nurse him for a bit and we’ll have to take on board his pain threshold, but at least there is no sign of any fracture.”

The Tangerines reserve side turned in a good performance in beating Motherwell 1-0 at Forfar’s Station Park yesterday.

David Goodwillie added to his growing reputation by bagging an excellent goal, although the manager stressed fans shouldn’t expect too much too soon.

“There is no doubt David is a player of great potential, but we have to be careful with him and we are in no rush to push him on.”