Kilmarnock skipper Manuel Pascali is out for the rest of the season after breaking his fibula in a freak training ground accident on Friday.

The loss of the 30-year-old Italian defender, who sustained the injury while stretching for the ball, represents a huge setback to the Ayrshire club who are aiming for a top-six place in the Clydesdale Bank Premier League and who face Celtic in next month's Scottish Communities League Cup final at Hampden.

Killie manager Kenny Shiels said: "I am really disappointed for Manuel. It is a really big blow for him and the team.

"He has so much passion to do well, and there was the cup final for him coming up. It wasn't an impact injury, it was while he was stretching for the ball.

"It gives the opportunity for other players to come in and try to stake their place but I am really gutted.

"We now have to garner some intensive energy to make up for the loss of Manuel."

Shiels confirmed the signing of midfielder Lee Johnson on a two-and-half-year deal.

The player received international clearance on Friday night and will be in the squad to play Hearts at Rugby Park on Saturday.

On the recruitment of the former Hearts midfielder, the Northern Irishman said: "He is our type of player, he will help create chances for the team."