St Johnstone manager Tommy Wright will field a makeshift back four against Celtic on Wednesday night to protect two key players.
The Perth boss won’t be taking unnecessary risks with Dave Mackay and Brian Easton in their final home game of the season, as the clash with the champions is a good deal less important than the Scottish Cup final in less than a fortnight.
Though Wright hasn’t given up on overtaking Inverness Caley Thistle for fifth place in the Premiership, the May 17 Celtic Park showpiece is his main priority.
Defender Frazer Wright was rested against Motherwell at the weekend and would have been spared duty against the Hoops as well.
But, with Mackay carrying a knee knock and left-back Easton not long back from a hamstring injury, Wright will return at the heart of the Saints defence.
Tim Clancy and Gary Miller are also expected to start.
Wright said: “We have only four fit defenders. ‘Cuptie’ and Brian could play at a push but there is no point risking anyone with the final in mind.
“I had planned to rest Frazer again but he will probably play now, and I will make one or two other changes,” the Saints boss said.
“Everyone coming in will be highly motivated to make the 18-strong squad for the final.”
Stevie May looks likely to keep playing.
Wright said: “He still looks fresh and he just keeps going. I will probably keep him in and Lee Croft is ready to start.”
With midfielder Gary McDonald returning from injury, Wright said: “It was good to get Gary on the park for a few minutes at the weekend.
“He has done well in training so it looks as if the treatment has worked, which is good news.
“I am pleased for Gary and we will try and get him some game time in the last two league matches.”
He added: “Celtic have had a great season in winning the league again and they are worthy champions. Like all good teams they haven’t let up after clinching the title.
“They keep going right to the end of the season and we will do the same.
“Realistically Dundee United are out of sight and we can only overhaul Inverness and we will give it our best shot.
“But we also have to make sure everyone is ready for the cup final. There is too much at stake to take unnecessary risks.”