St Johnstone manager Derek McInnes is hoping to have first choice right-back Dave Mackay available again for the club’s final pre-season friendly against Spanish side Valladolid on Saturday.
McInnes was forced to play youngster Liam Caddis at right-back in the first match and former Dundee United and Aberdeen player Stuart Duff who is using the facilities at McDiarmid as he bids to find a club in the second.
“Dave took a knee in the back against Dungannon and it stiffened up a lot,” he said.
“He has responded well to treatment and we hope to have him back in the side for Saturday.
“However Murray Davidson, who suffered a similar injury to Mackay last week, is feeling his back again, while Stevie Milne missed the Bolton game with a groin strain.
“So we will have to wait to see whether they can play against Valladolid.”
The Bolton match was Saints’ fourth in just six days, and the hard-working players will head to Crieff Hydro today for some well-earned rest and relaxation.
“We have been to Crieff before and they look after us well,” added McInnes.
“We will be doing off-road stuff in the morning and then golfing after lunch.
“It is a good chance for some team-bonding and for the players to relax.
“They have been working really hard and it is an opportunity for a bit of respite.
“We have brought a few players in during the summer but a lot have left as well.
“So after picking up one or two injuries the schedule has placed a huge demand on the players.”