Hardie received what Saints’ player-boss Owen Coyle referred to as “a whack on the back” against Partick Thistle and Milne was taken off in that game with a calf injury.

Saints are unbeaten this season and go to Cappielow with confidence.

Advancement in the Challenge Cup will mean extra games for the Perth club in what has been a packed schedule already — but they don’t mind.

Midfield man Paul Sheerin explained, “Players would rather play than train, especially if the team is going well.

“Morton are also flying so this should be a great game and, hopefully, at the end of it, we’ll be in the Challenge Cup semis.”

Paul has already been to a Challenge Cup Final but it holds bitter memories for him. As an ICT player, he was in the side which lost to Alloa.

As he looked ahead to tonight’s game at Cappielow, he said, “It’s a while since I’ve played there, but I’m looking forward to the game.”

Footnote — The last time a Saints side played at Cappielow it was their supporters’ team. They played a national cup final there — and won.

ARBROATH head for Coatbridge tonight to meet Albion Rovers in their quarter-final.

Jamie Bishop, ordered off in the league match between the sides at Gayfield on Saturday, which Albion won, is available and in the Red Lichties’ squad.

Arbroath report no injury worries and manager John McGlashan commented, “This game is coming soon after our defeat in the league against Albion and the players will be out to show what they can do.”

Tonight’s other ties see Clyde at home to Ayr and Ross County hosting Gretna.