Motherwell welcome back defender Johnny Koutroumbis from suspension for their trip to face Kilmarnock. The squad, however, remains depleted with Dylan Williams, Regan Charles-Cook, Oscar Priestman and Callum Hendry all set to miss out through injury.
The returns are badly needed for a side sitting 10th in the Premiership with just eight points from nine games, having managed only two wins and two draws so far. Their recent form shows five consecutive defeats, the latest a 3-2 loss to Kilmarnock just days ago. That run, which includes a 0-2 home defeat to Celtic and a 2-1 loss at Dundee, has left them only one point above the relegation zone and a significant 16 points adrift of league leaders Celtic. The team has scored 11 goals but conceded 16 this season.
Kilmarnock have their own significant absence, with goalkeeper Max Stryjek ruled out for a considerable period due to a knee injury. Calum Ferrie will continue in goal for the hosts.
Squad challenges
Motherwell's lengthy injury list continues to hamper selection options. The absence of forward Callum Hendry and midfielder Oscar Priestman, alongside wingers Dylan Williams and Regan Charles-Cook, limits attacking alternatives for a team that has lost its last five matches.
The team's next challenge is a home match against third-placed Heart of Midlothian on Saturday, 25 October. Improving a defensive record of 16 goals conceded in nine league matches will be a priority. Top scorer Alex Lowry, who has three goals this season and netted in the recent 3-2 defeat at Rugby Park, will again be looked to for a spark.
George Stanger, whose red card in that match was downgraded to a yellow after a VAR review, is available for selection. Motherwell will hope to end their losing streak and build some momentum before the international break.
More detail at bbc.co.uk
