Dundee United goalkeeper Dusan Pernis is set to jet home from international duty in time for his club’s Scottish Cup quarter-final replay against Motherwell.
The Slovakian has been called up to his national side for the matches against Andorra on Saturday and then a friendly with Denmark next Wednesday — the same night as United’s cup tie against the Steelmen.
However, Tannadice boss Peter Houston has arranged with former Hearts star Robert Tomaschek, who is now director of football with Slovakia, for Pernis to be released after the competitive match. The 26-year-old will fly back to Scotland after the Andorra game and resume training with United on Monday.
“Dusan has joined up with his national team for the game at the weekend then he will travel back on Sunday,” said United assistant boss Gary Kirk.
“We have a big game against Motherwell on the Wednesday so it’s important to have him available. We are grateful to the Slovakian FA for allowing Dusan to be released from the squad early.
“The gaffer spoke to Robert Tomaschek, who we know from working with at Hearts, and he sorted it out for us — so we owe him one.”
United’s players are recharging their batteries with a few days off after a hectic recent schedule which saw them play six matches in just 19 days.
Kirk believes the rest will have done them the world of good.
“The boys deserved to have a break because they have done brilliantly. We are back in later this week and I am sure they will return raring to go because we have some important games coming up.”