Triple blow for Doonhamers
Queen of the South will be without three players when they host Scottish Championship leaders Falkirk.
Chris Higgins is suspended after the club's appeal against his recent red card at Morton was not successful. Iain Russell is also banned while goalkeeper Zander Clark is out with a thigh injury.
However, some good news for Doonhamers boss Jim McIntyre sees Derek Young added to the squad after two months out with a toe injury.
McIntyre said: "We have put a good run together and Falkirk are unbeaten in 11 games so it is a meeting of two teams in form.
"A win opens up a gap on the other teams chasing a play-off spot but we know that it will be tough to achieve."
Falkirk defender David McCracken will be included if he passes a Saturday morning fitness test.
Thomas Grant is definitely still out through illness, though. However, new loan signing from Carlisle Mark Beck is in line for his first start up front.
Bairns technical director Alex Smith knows his team will be facing an in-form side that is full of confidence.
He said: "Queen of the South have a very enthusiastic manager in Jim McIntyre and his side play in his style. It is working as they are on a good run just now but our objective is simple - that is to win and stay at the top of the table."
Source: PA
