| Injuries and suspension took their toll on the Tangerines as ICT ran out 1-0 winners and, while Craig felt there had still been enough playing resources to put out a winning team, he was not entirely surprised by the result.
“We did have a lot of bodies missing and I suppose that makes the defeat understandable in a way, but it does not change the fact we were disappointed to lose to a team who are below us in the league,” he said.
“That is not something that has happened often to us and that says everything about the progress the players have made.”
And the good news for United fans is that, by the time this Saturday’s trip to Falkirk comes round, the manager will have a considerably stronger squad to pick from.
“I will be very surprised if I do not have five back. Barry Robson and Sean Dillon have served their suspensions and I’d expect Christian Kalvenes, Noel Hunt and Prince Buaben to be fit again, so that should give us a boost.”
By the end of the week, Craig Conway should also return to full training after his metatarsal break.
“Craig sees the specialist in the next few days and that should see him get the green light, but he has been out for a long time and will need a couple of weeks training before we would think about giving him any sort of game.”
As one player nears a return, another is set for a lengthy injury absence. The bad luck that’s dogged Steven Robb since he joined United struck again on Saturday when he tore a groin muscle. He could be out for two months.
“We feel for him because it has been one thing after another and this will need a bit of time to heal,” added Craig.
Lee Wilkie’s booking on Saturday means he will miss this month's clashes with St Mirren and Gretna through suspension. |
