Former Aberdeen star's injury concern for Albion Rovers boss

Michael Paton hobbled off in Albion Rovers’ League Two opener on Saturday and boss Brian Reid has his fingers crossed the midfielder won’t be out long-term.

The 33-year-old was replaced by Kieran McGrath after 52 minutes of their 1-0 defeat to Stenhousemuir at Ochilview with a hamstring problem and the ex-Aberdeen star is a certainty to miss this weekend’s clash at home to Dumbarton.

After a season blighted by injuries last term, Reid is praying lightning doesn’t strike twice.

He said: “Michael Paton came off on Saturday with a hamstring issue so I hope that’s not too serious.

“I hope this is not a sign of things to come like last season and it’s just a blip.

“We certainly need everyone fit and available because I think we can challenge if that’s the case.

“It’s a bit early but it’s always a worry when it’s a hamstring.

“You’d much rather it was a knock or a bruise, but I’m hoping it’s not too serious.

“We’ll just have to gauge it at training this week but I fear he’s out for a couple of weeks anyway.

“I’ve got my fingers crossed it’s not any longer.

“If it wasn’t for injuries last season, I felt we could have been pushing for top four if everyone was fit but last season was just unbelievable.

“I hope our luck changes this season because already there’s been a couple of things.

“Max Wright was back on the bench after injury but is lacking match sharpness.

“Blair Malcolm, who has started the season really well, has tweaked his groin so has missed the last couple of games.”

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