Dundee United have told midfielder Danny Swanson to stay at home so he is fit and well when the Tangerines kick off their defence of the Scottish Cup.
The Tannadice men begin their bid to retain the trophy they won against Ross County in the final in May when they host a rematch against the Staggies in this season’s fourth round on Saturday.
Swanson, one of the Hampden heroes, has been laid low with a sickness bug.
In order to see him return to health as soon as possible, as well as prevent the virus spreading through the squad, he has been told to stay away from training by manager Peter Houston.
“Danny has been ill with a vomiting bug, so I have told him to steer clear of the place,” Houston said.
“He is getting to the stage where he is ready to start a game so we hope he gets better as quickly as possible. That means he might have to stay at home for a couple of days.
“Saturday will be a great day and a big occasion for the club as we try to defend the trophy, so we want as many players available as possible.
“I watched Ross County against Dundee on Sunday and their team is along much the same lines as it was last season.
“Also, we know from playing them in the past that they are a good side, so we will have to be at our very best to get through to the next round.”
United full-back Paul Dixon picked up a minor knock against Aberdeen on Saturday but returned to training yesterday and is expected to be in his usual place against County.
“Dicker took a kick on the shin and was a bit sore but he managed to train today,” Houston said yesterday.
“I don’t think it will be any problem at all for the weekend.”