FOX CAN BE COUNTED ON
IAN CATHRO LEE McCULLOCH PEDRO CAIXINHA JIM McINTYRE PETER HOUSTON RAY McKINNON
SCOTT FOX is set to return to action for Ross County before Christmas after specialists eased fears of a longer-term injury.
The keeper was carried off with a thigh injury in last month’s 0-0 draw with St Johnstone in Perth.
There were initial concerns the muscle tear would force Fox out until after the winter break but scans have revealed there is no need for an operation.
County manager Owen Coyle is relieved but insists Fox’s setback gives Aaron McCarey a chance to stake a claim for the No.1 jersey.
Coyle said: “The good news is Scott doesn’t need an operation. What he will need is a little bit of rest before stepping it up again in training.
“I’d say we’re looking at five to six weeks. Hopefully he will be back a couple of weeks into December.
“But big Aaron has come in and done very well. It gives us competition between two fantastic keepers who are pushing each other all the way.”
Coyle also hopes to have captain Andrew Davies back from a back injury for Saturday’s home clash with Motherwell.
The Staggies gaffer said: “Hopefully Davies will be back available for the weekend – fingers crossed.”
Coyle is keen to see Frenchman Christopher Routis in first-team action for the first time after his recovery from injury, with the ex-Bradford midfielder now nearing full fitness.
The County manager added: “Chris played in a Development League game and did well when he came on against Aberdeen last weekend, without even having a proper match under his belt. That gives me another option because he looks a very talented player.”