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Could Dundee United midfield injuries force Tangerines into free agent market?

A devastated Pawlett on the Tynecastle turf. Image: SNS
A devastated Pawlett on the Tynecastle turf. Image: SNS

Liam Fox insists he is “devastated” for Peter Pawlett after the Dundee United midfielder suffered a potentially serious hamstring injury.

Making his first start since February 2022, Pawlett was enjoying a sensational afternoon against Hearts on Saturday — only for him to slump to the turf clutching his leg after 51 minutes.

The former Aberdeen and MK Dons man was visibly upset, holding his hands over his face before limping off the field to be consoled by the United coaching staff.

Asked whether the club may consider bolstering their options by dipping into the free agent market, Fox added: “It’s very soon after the game. I need to have a think about the next steps. We might look at it, we might not.”

Pawlett endured nine months out following Achilles surgery, effectively rendering his 2022 a write-off.

He only made his first appearance of the season back in October and his showing in Gorgie was a tantalising glimpse of what he can bring to the side.

A gutted Pawlett leaves the field as Dave Bowman looks on. Image: SNS

“I am absolutely devastated for Pete,” said Fox. “Not only did I think he was the best player on the pitch over the first period, but he has worked so hard to get back and be available.

“It could be a wee bit of time (out). It was his hamstring. There isn’t much power or strength in it at the moment, which is always a concern.

“It’s a sore one for him.”

Stick together

Ironically, Pawlett was only in the starting lineup against Hearts because Jamie McGrath suffered a hamstring injury prior to kick-off.

Ian Harkes is also out for a number of weeks.

Fox added: “We lost Jamie McGrath to a hamstring in the warm-up so it feels like we are fighting against it — but we won’t feel sorry for ourselves. We will stick together and, although we will be low on bodies for a period, I believe in the group.”

Asked whether the club may consider bolstering their options by dipping into the free agent market, Fox added: “It’s very soon after the game. I need to have a think about the next steps. We might look at it, we might not.”

Niskanen battles Aussie wonderkid Garang Kuol. Image: SNS

Meanwhile, Fox was fulsome in his praise for Ilmari Niskanen after the Finland international came in from the cold to star for United in the 3-1 defeat to the Jambos.

The tireless wide-man, making his first start since October, was a standout for the visitors at Tynecastle.

He grabbed an assist for Steven Fletcher’s opener, was a menace on the left flank and, despite being limited to defensive duties in the second period, carried those out faultlessly.

“He’s a top professional and has worked extremely hard,” lauded Fox.

“Immi has been very patient and trains properly every single day. He has made me pick him by the way that he trains and his consistency of work.

“I thought he was excellent.”

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