Home   Sport   Article

Caley Thistle defender ruled out of Championship play-off final





Danny Devine.
Danny Devine.

DEFENDER Danny Devine has been ruled out of Inverness Caledonian Thistle’s Championship play-off final second leg tie against Hamilton Academical on Saturday night.

The 32-year-old central defender rolled his ankle in the first leg on Wednesday night which Inverness lost 2-1 at New Douglas Park.

Manager Duncan Ferguson has confirmed the Northern Irishman’s season is now over and is now looking at who will replace him in the back line.

However, he gave no hint of his team selection before tomorrow’s crunch match.

"Danny Devine is out after rolling his ankle on the plastic surface on Wednesday. I have not had the medical report yet, so I can't say how long he will be out.

"Danny rolled his ankle on the plastic surface. It's a bad one.

"But I've got other good players who can step up.”

However, midfielder Charlie Gilmour will be fit to start tomorrow’s game after having to come off on Wednesday night.

Inverness must win tomorrow to avoid relegation to League One next season after suffering a 2-1 defeat at Hamilton on Wednesday night. Kevin O’Hara’s shot from 40-yards deflected off the back of Mark Ridgers to give Hamilton the lead after five minutes. Fergus Owens double their advantage midway through the first half. Airibim Pepple did pull one back midway through the second half to reduce the deficit to one going into the second leg.

Ferguson remains confident Inverness can win tomorrow night and remain in the Championship.

"It's a cup final. It's everything. But it's one we're looking forward to.

"It was a tough game on Wednesday, but we got back into the tie.

"We had momentum in the second half.

"We need to focus on winning the game of football.

"We're focused on what's in front of us, and that's Hamilton.

"As the manager, I am making sure my players are focused and ready for this match.

"It has been a challenge since I came to the club. I knew what I was getting myself into.

"When I came in, the team only had one point from six games. We were struggling and always playing catch-up.

"We got 42 points and that was not quite enough when most other times it would have been enough to stay up.

"I have looked forward to the challenge. I enjoy being here and I am sure the players will step up on Saturday.“


Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.



This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies - Learn More