St Mirren are likely to be without their number one goalkeeper Shamal George for Sunday’s Scottish Cup semi final against Celtic.
The English shot stopper had to come off during the first half of Celtic’s quiet 1-0 victory over the Paisley side, and interim boss Craig McLeish has now confirmed there is a new injury issue to worry about.
Speaking on Thursday afternoon, McLeish admitted the player remains a doubt for the tie, which could see Ryan Mullen handed the chance to start in goal at Hampden.
“We need to assess it. He’s only just went over his ankle so we’re hoping that he’s going to be okay. Ryan came in at the weekend and did great in place of Shamal throughout the game.
“If Ryan steps in then we’re more than comfortable and confident with what Ryan can do as well. We need to wait on Shamal’s update and whoever’s in goal for us, we’re confident.”
George produced several important stops in the Premier Sports Cup final against Wilfried Nancy’s team to keep Celtic at bay. Mullen, meanwhile, was hardly called into action after replacing him, given how the match played out for long spells.
Under McLeish, St Mirren have caught the eye with a shift towards a more controlled, possession focused style compared to the approach previously used by Stephen Robinson.
Celtic, on the other hand, are still dealing with a number of long term absentees including Julian Araujo, Cameron Carter Vickers and Jota. There is some positive news though, with Alistair Johnston and Callum Osmand closing in on returns to the squad.
The winner of this tie will go on to face either Falkirk or Dunfermline, who meet at Hampden on Saturday.