There was mixed news on the injury front at Dundee United today.
Keeper Cammy Bell could be set for a quicker-than-expected return following groin surgery but midfielder Stewart Murdoch may be out for three months with knee damage.
Bell underwent a groin operation a week ago and missed the Irn-Bru Cup victory down at Stranraer.
He was also expected to miss the trip to St Mirren when Championship business resumes this weekend.
But a rapid recovery has seen the former Rangers man take part in light training and hopes are high he will return to the starting line-up against the Buddies, although that will depend on whether or not he suffers any adverse effect to training over the next few days.
Meanwhile, Bell’s penalty heroics at Dunfermline a few weeks back saw him named Ladbrokes Championship Player of the Month for September.
Bell set a world first when he saved three spot-kicks in one half of a competitive game as United beat the Pars 3-1 at East End Park.
In the space of just 22 minutes, the 30-year-old denied Gavin Reilly, Nicky Clark and Paul McMullan as they shot from 12 yards.
The award is also recognition of a string of impressive performances since switching from Ibrox in the summer.
Meanwhile, United’s worst fears were confirmed today with news Murdoch has a slight tear of his cruciate ligament. That could see the former Ross County man sidelined up to Christmas and beyond.
This weekend should see midfielder Willo Flood back after missing the last four games with a thigh problem. Dutch attacker Nick van der Velden is also in line for a return to the starting line-up after being rested for the Stranraer trip.
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