Paul McGinn piles on Rangers 'pressure' as Motherwell star battles through injury pain to return for strugglers

Paul McGinn reckons he’s answered opposition fans’ prayers by donning a mask as he recovers from a smashed cheekbone. But the Motherwell defender insists it’s his own punters’ wishes he’s focused on delivering over Christmas - as there’s no disguising Well’s need for points after a 14-game winless run.

McGinn has returned from six weeks on the sidelines after having a plate inserted in the side of his face to help heal the agonising fracture sustained against Kilmarnock. It’s not quite the Man in the Iron Mask material. But the 33-year-old has become the Steelman in the protective mask as he looks to ride to the rescue for Stuart Kettlewell’s side starting tomorrow against Rangers. He said: "I'll be wearing the mask until the winter break. Then it'll be gone!

"It's not the most enjoyable. Hats off to Callum McGregor and Danilo who had to play with them for a while as well, because it definitely isn't easy. I guess it helps to protect my good looks! The away fans have thought I should be wearing a mask my whole career .. so I guess I answered their prayers. I've not had any nicknames, just those wee stickers on WhatsApp. I've a few of them now. The family have got involved as well, giving me a bit of stick. I'm not a good watcher of games. I hate it. The nails come off.

"My brothers have always said that you'd much rather be involved and able to contribute. I don't envy the managers watching on from the sidelines. We need to tighten up again so it was good to get the clean sheet last time out.

"When Celtic and Rangers go away from home the pressure and expectation is on them to take all three points. We know if we play at our best we can win this game and it would be a really good Christmas present for our fans if we can