A Busy Week Ahead for Terry

Terry Butcher said after the game in Dumfries that this could be a very, very busy week.

The imminent departure of David Partridge will unsettle the defensive line which is already depleted by the long term injury to Corrigan. The Welshman’s transfer fee will be available to fund a replacement and we can be sure that Butcher will be scouring his little black book to fill the gap.

The midfield has a familiar core with O’Donnell, Leitch and Paterson providing experience in the centre of the park. McBride is a known absentee but what about Brian Kerr? He managed a few appearances towards the end of last season and had a full run at the pre season training schedule. Why did he play no more than the half hour he was given against Queen of the South? Will Fagan be given a start against Celtic?

The real fun begins when we look at the striking department. Foran is suspended as a result of crossing the penalty point threshold. Clarkson’s apparent indiscretion with the Doonhamers’ right back rules him out with a violent conduct ban. Jim Hamilton had to be substituted early in the game when he suffered a dead leg (he now has a pair according to the manager) and it will take a few days before we know if he will recover in time.

The last recognised striker is Scott McDonald. He failed to appear at Dumfries. There is a deafening silence from the club about the progress of the talks which were designed to cause him to agree to a contract extension. When asked about the striking problem for the opener Butcher said “He’ll have to play”.

It would be nice to know if he wants to be around for the long run or whether he already has an eye on a move.

So it looks like any aspiring striker should present themselves at Fir Park any time this week and get an introduction to Mr Butcher. He will be delighted to see you (assuming he’s not too busy making last gasp signings before the transfer window closes).