David Martindale calls on new-signing Soto to get Livingston in the top six after top scorer injury

Livingston boss David Martindale has challenged striker Sebastian Soto to be the man to fire the Lions into the top six.

The American international, on loan from Norwich City, has yet to start a game for Livi since his arrival in the winter transfer window but is likely to be called on to lead the line with top scorer Bruce Anderson potentially missing the rest of the season with an ankle injury.

The Lions travel to Perth on Saturday to take on St Johnstone in the penultimate game before the split.

They currently occupy sixth spot as they look to grab a place in the top half of the table for the third successive season.

However, just four points separate the seven teams between fourth-placed Dundee United and Aberdeen down in 10th.

Speaking to the Courier, Martindale said: “Bruce is proving to be a quick healer because he’s recovering really well. He’s got a good range of movement but he hasn’t done any running yet and it’s hard to properly judge until then.

“He’s in a better place right now than we thought he would be, but it’s too early to say whether he’ll play again this season.

“That means someone else needs to step up. There are others who can help out in the attack, but you’re probably really looking at Sebastian as more of a No.9 and a direct replacement for Bruce so he’s the one you’re wanting to see make that step.

“You put in the hard yards in training and make sure you’re mentally ready for when you get a chance. Bruce is out with injury and you’d have to say if Sebastian has aspirations of being the No.9 at Norwich City and playing international football, then he needs to show he can be the No.9 for Livingston first and he’s got a chance to do that.”

Their hosts at the weekend are scrapping for Premiership