Livingston have been dealt an harm blow following information that Tom Parkes may miss all the season.
However whereas the Lions are reeling from the lack of one centre-back, the return of one other from harm is simply across the nook with Morgan Boyes anticipated to be obtainable for choice earlier than the tip of the month.
Parkes underwent knee surgical procedure in the summertime however is now anticipated to be dominated out for as much as 9 months after requiring a second operation.
Boss David Martindale admitted that he was ‘gutted’ for the participant, who signed a brand new deal in the summertime after his authentic operation was resulting from rule him out for six weeks.
He stated: “He had his op however the meniscus has come off the bone.
“He had surgical procedure in the summertime. He signed his contract, began his rehab, then six weeks in his knee began swelling once more. We obtained a second opinion and discovered the meniscus has come off the bone.
“It’s simply actually unfortunate for me by way of lacking a participant, for the soccer membership by way of funds, however largely for Tom. I’m gutted for him, he’s an excellent lad. He’s labored so exhausting, he’s so desirous to play for Livingston. The season's almost a write-off for him to be sincere."

The harm to Parkes has additionally meant Martindale has needed to shelve plans to mortgage out Boyes, who has returned to coaching following a ligament harm sustained within the ultimate sport of final season.
Martindale stated: "I am in search of yet another offensive participant. I feel I am tremendous defensively. Morgan's been again working for 2 weeks and to be sincere up till Tom's harm the plan was to ship him out to get video games however I do not suppose I can try this now.
"The concept was to get him on top of things as a result of he is missed a full pre-season - it has been three months since his op - however that is in all probability not going to occur now. We're taking a look at it seemingly being the tip of August earlier than he is prepared for video games however Tom's harm has made my thoughts up that we're not going to get the chance to place him out on mortgage.
"I actually like Morgan, he is an excellent participant and there is loads of growth and expertise nonetheless to come back from him. I hoped to get him sport time till January however he'll should be a part of our squad."
Do not miss the most recent information from the West Lothian Courier. Signal as much as our free e-newsletter right here