St Johnstone v Dundee preview

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The midfielder has had an injury-disrupted campaign and is to be sent for tests as he struggles to overcome a problem with his knee that forced him to sit out Tuesday night’s 1-0 defeat at Ross County.

A win will guarantee the Perth side a top-half finish and manager Tommy Wright said: “Murray has been for an x-ray on his knee and we’re waiting to hear the results. We’re hoping it’s nothing too serious. The Ross County result was disappointing because we didn’t pass the ball as well as we normally can.

“Getting into the top six has been our aim this season and it has come down to the last game before the split now. It’s a game against our local rivals so there should be a good crowd and we’re hoping to get the job done.”

In-form Dundee go into the game in great heart having boosted their own top-six hopes with victory in the Tayside derby.

Greg Stewart faces a late test while defender Gary Irvine (knee), midfielder Gary Harkins (shin) and striker Luka Tankulic (hamstring) are still out. Paul McGowan returned after five matches out in the 3-1 win at Dens Park on Wednesday and is expected to continue at McDiarmid Park.

Manager Paul Hartley said: “Everybody thought we’d be struggling at the bottom but I’ve got great belief in my group of players. It’s important for the players to get into the top six as they’re desperate to get in there.

“We’ll take a big travelling support to Perth, so I’m sure they’ll be rubbing their hands.” 

St Johnstone v Dundee preview

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The Perth boss is encouraged by the progress of Murray Davidson who is still working on his fitness following knee surgery but Wright has yet to decide if the midfielder is to be included in the 18-man matchday squad.

Dundee’s Peter MacDonald has lost his race against time to be fit for the match at McDiarmid Park.

The prolific striker was injured in the 1-1 draw against Celtic last time out and has not shaken off the knock in time for the game against his former club.

Manager Paul Hartley may call on David Clarkson to deputise, the former Scotland and Motherwell striker having joined the club this week. 

Neither Kevin Thomson nor Willie Dyer will be involved as Dundee look to extend their five-match unbeaten league run.