McAllister faces a long recovery

Kyle McAllister looks set for an extended spell on the sidelines as the former St Mirren kid struggles to find a break at Derby County.

The 18-year-old has been beset with injuries since making the move down south in January.

His progress has been stunted at the Championship side as he looks to overcome a groin injury, which he has had to deal with since his time in Paisley.

McAllister made a massive impression during his time with the Saints, including a wonder strike against Spartans in the Scottish Cup last November.

This prompted a lot of interest in his services before he was snapped up by then Rams boss Steve McClaren.

He has been training with the club’s under-23 side since making the switch, with youth team boss Craig Short admitting that the youngster has been unlucky since making the move.

Short explained:“It is unfortunate for Kyle because he arrived at Derby with a bit of an injury.

“I know he has played a lot of football. He made his debut at 15 and he has this recurring problem with a groin strain.

“I’m not a medic, but it has held him back.

“He has shown some flashes of outstanding brilliance as an individual.

“He has played a number of league games in Scotland.

“He is under the care and attention of the physio and it could be a long process to get him fit.

“He needs that because there is no point in him coming back in for three weeks and then being out for four weeks, because the season is gone, so we need to get him right.

“If it takes until spring to do that, then we will have to take it from there and, hopefully, he will come back strong and prepared.

“But it will definitely be after Christmas before he is back.”