Oscar for Shinnie

After the disappointment of last weeks visit to Glasgow, we now have to get back to business with a trip to Perth in the first of our vital last four games, and every one a six-pointer. This one is a high noon kick off with the lure of European football the main attraction.

Last week, Celtic dominated the second half after Gary Warren went off injured and it was no surprise that they ran out comfortable winners in the end although the manner of the defeat frustrated the Caley Thistle manager.

We are now at a stage in the season where it is crucial not to drop points to your rivals and every game will be keenly contested. The team with the biggest balls looks like the ones that will fill the last Euro spot available, assuming Motherwell don't go into meltdown and throw away their hard earned position, but that would appear to be unlikely as the Steelmen march onwards and upwards. We do hold a four point gap over St Johnstone; defeat would take that down to a precarious one point so a draw would not be the worst score on this occasion

Inverness and St Johnstone have played each other three times this season and there has been nothing between the sides. Goals have been at a premium, with both sides scoring only one goal, the last two encounters producing a dour stalemate where neither side looked likely to produce a winner. Given what's at stake, I don't see this game any different and the team willing to take the bull by the horns could be the one checking their passports depending on results elsewhere, it's that tight.

Gary Warren was thrust into action at Parkhead but his season is over after suffering a second half injury and that could not have come at a worse time for Inverness. Danny Devine will replace him and Chris Hogg will come into contention after making a few appearances with the u20 side since his comeback started in earnest.

The big debate however is surrounding Andy Shinnie. Some are doubting his commitment lately, especially since his move to Birmingham was outed. Andy is one player you can rely on to come out with the ball in a tight space and in my opinion he is a must to start every game, hopefully he has taken the weight off his shoulders after talking to the press about his move. He has at last spoken about his departure for Birmingham City, a route opted for by Adam Rooney who is now on loan at Swindon Town. For Andy, it's all about the challenge ahead, proving himself to a new fanbase and manager although his brother Graeme has already replaced him with a dog. Family ehh. Andy gained his first Scotland cap this season in a friendly against Luxembourg and it appears that more than Birmingham have noticed his form, for he has been shortlisted for Player of the Year, a fine accolade for the 23 year old who has been instrumental in putting Inverness where they are now. Clinching a European spot is Andy's priority now and he has four games left with us to achieve that. Good luck in the future and thanks for your time with us.

Brother Graeme talks about Oscar.............

Offers have been tabled to Aaron Doran and Owain Tudur-Jones and both players have responded positively so far with discussions pleasing Terry Butcher although neither have committed themselves to another season with Inverness yet. The lure of Europa football could be key to securing deals for these players and it would be great to head in the right direction sooner rather than later starting at Perth on Saturday lunchtime.

***Latest Team News***

Inverness will have to do without Gary Warren for the last four games of the season.  He retired early from the Celtic game, his first after coming back from a month out, and his season is now over. Ryan Esson is still out and Simon King is long term injured (is he still here?).

St Johnstone have midfielder Liam Craig available for selection after suspension. Murray Davidson  might not make it due to an ankle injury while long-term absentees David Robertson and Jamie Adams remain sidelined.

Butcher looks ahead............

And the view from Perth.



tm4tj prediction:- Difficult to see past another draw, which would suit us better than Saints although he who dares wins, but with so much at stake I don't see Butcher going gung-ho for a victory. Mehdi Abeid caused us problems in Inverness with his deep powerful runs towards our box and looks to be one to watch. Aaron Doran got a wee lift with a goal last week and I hope that gives him the taste for more. I hope I'm totally wrong here, but I see another draw, scoreless or 1-1, however, St Johnstone need this or their season all but ends here and they will fancy their chances.