Dundee United keeper Benjamin Siegrist faces a race against time to be fit for the Premiership kick-off.
Swiss star Siegrist picked up an injury in training and didn’t feature as new boss Micky Mellon watched his side go down 1-0 to Motherwell in a closed-doors friendly on Saturday.
The 28-year-old was replaced between the sticks by Deniz Mehmet, who made way for new signing Jack Newman in the second half.
Siegrist was an integral part of the United side that romped to the Championship title under Robbie Neilson last season.
Mellon – who joined last week from Tranmere Rovers – is hoping the fans’ favourite will be ready for the visit of Tayside rivals St Johnstone on August 1.
Meanwhile, the Tangerines were boosted by the return of striker Nicky Clark against Well, his first appearance since January.
Clark – who suffered a broken ankle in a match against Partick Thistle – told ArabZONE: “It was a long time coming and it’s been difficult for me but I’m delighted to be back.
“It was all about fitness, feeling good and not getting any injuries so it was a good day.
“I might’ve been back for the last few games (of the 2019/20 season) but obviously that didn’t happen.
“I’ve worked really hard during lockdown and the ankle’s feeling great.
“I’m buzzing to be back and be in among the boys in training. The surgery went well and I’m feeling really good.”
The friendly at Motherwell’s Dalziel Park training base was manager Mellon’s first game in charge at United.
Clark added: “He’s got his own way of playing, he’s told us what he’s all about and the boys should be buying into that.
“He’s spoken to everyone as a group and the attitude’s been great. The boys are enjoying it.”
Robbie Neilson planning talks with his former Dundee United No2 Lee McCulloch about Hearts role
