Dundee United are facing a derby selection crisis for the crucial Tannadice clash with city rivals Dundee.
The Tangerines could be without as many as six first-team choices for Sunday’s match, a fixture they are desperate to win to have a chance of finishing in the SPL’s top six.
The red card for John Rankin in the goalless draw with St Mirren on Saturday means he will be suspended, although boss Jackie McNamara has not yet ruled out an appeal.
The United manager has confirmed that Willo Flood, his captain against the Buddies, will be serving a ban as he has broken through the cumulative penalty points barrier.
As well as the suspensions, they have Johnny Russell (leg fracture) and Gavin Gunning (knee) definitely out, while Jon Daly (groin) missed Saturday’s trip to Paisley and Brian McLean hobbled off suffering from hamstring trouble.
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McLean and Daly are to have their injuries assessed this week, while McNamara has a decision to make regarding Rankin, whom he felt was hard done by.
The midfielder was sent packing by referee John Beaton for a challenge on Buddies player John McGinn.
The match official was quick to punish Rankin for what he considered to be a dangerous two-footed tackle on an opponent.
After watching TV footage of the incident, however, McNamara may yet fight the ban.
“I have seen the tackle again and think it’s harsh but we still need to decide if it is worth appealing the decision,” said McNamara.
“It is hard for the referee because the lad (McGinn) kind of turned into him and it happened so quickly, but it is not John’s style.”
Even St Mirren boss Danny Lennon had sympathy, saying: “You get to know players and John is certainly not that type of professional.
“From what I have seen, United will probably appeal that one.”
For a full match report, see Monday’s Courier or try our digital edition.