When quizzed about the chances of that leading to an appearance in the top-team squad for the weekend, however, he was quick to adopt a cautious tone.

“I wouldn’t go so far as to say 90 minutes today means I’ll be involved against Hibs. I’ve been training and the shoulder seems fine, but I’ll see how I feel over the next few days,” he said.

Even though it has been highlighted his squad is short on strikers following the departure for Aberdeen of Lee Miller, with Noel Hunt expected to be fully fit and Collin Samuel also in contention to continue in the central striker’s role, Craig may not feel the need to rush back.

And, if Zimbabwean trialist Brian Badza continues to impress in training, there is a chance he will be signed up in time for consideration.

Badza was set to sign for Kilmarnock, but, once Arsenal decided not to move yet for highly-rated Under-21 international Steven Naismith, there was no room on the Rugby Park wage bill and he was allowed to come to United.

The international team striker was not considered for this afternoon’s visit to Fife, but Lee Wilkie’s fitness bid continued with another run out.

Meanwhile, youngster Stuart Abbot has left the club to start a degree course at university and goes with his gaffer’s best wishes.

“Stuart was a great type to have about the place, but we’ve had a chat and we decided this is his best option right now,” added Craig.

“I would hope that he could still find a club and play on a part-time basis, because he still has something to offer.”