Inverness Caley Thistle manager is set to gamble on return of Nathan Shaw from injury as they prepare to face Dundee United
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MANAGER Duncan Ferguson says he is going to gamble on the fitness of Nathan Shaw and bring him back into the squad for Inverness Caledonian Thistle’s clash at Dundee United on Saturday.
The midfielder has not featured for Caley Thistle since picking up a hamstring injury in the 0-0 draw against Dunfermline Athletic last month.
However, Ferguson says Shaw has made good progress in his recovery and has done enough in training to consider him for tomorrow’s match at Tannadice.
Inverness are in the relegation play-off zone in ninth place in the Championship, two points off Queen’s Park.
Ferguson says Shaw is an important part of the squad and is eager to have him available for action.
He said: “We are going to bring back Nathan Shaw for Saturday.
“He has trained today – and needs must. He is one of our key players, so we are going to take a gamble on him and get him into the roster on Saturday.
“He is a key player for me and we are in trouble. Maybe he needs another week of more training, but it is all hands on deck.
“He is ready and is happy enough. It is my decision whether I start him or put him on the bench.
“He will certainly be involved but it will be a gamble, but we need him for the run-in.”
Ferguson is also hopeful defender Morgan Boyes will be available for selection, with Nikola Ujdur returning close to fitness.
However, Luis Longstaff and Charlie Gilmour remain out injured for the forseeable future.
Ferguson says he is also considering whether to sign his son Cameron Ferguson at the club.
The 20-year-old, who plays as a striker, has been on trial with Inverness after being released from English Premiership club Newcastle United in January.
He was on loan at Scottish League Two club Forfar Athletic during the first half of the season.
Ferguson said: “Cameron has done well and is in consideration.
“I have not signed him yet but it is on my mind, because we are short and that is something we are looking at.”
Inverness head to leaders Dundee United tomorrow and Ferguson is confident they can produce a result considering their away form is better than at home.
“They will be under a bit of pressure as well, they obviously lost the last game down at Dunfermline so they will be looking to bounce back,” he added.
“There’s a bit of pressure on them to go up as champions, but there’s also pressure on us.”
