Stephen Robinson: Motherwell boss reveals crocked keeper Trevor Carson could come back sooner than first thought

Carson – injured in the recent 4-0 home win over Ross County – underwent a knee operation last week and could now make his comeback for the Steelmen early in the New Year.

Robinson said: "Obviously it's a huge blow to lose Trevor, but his operation has gone really well and we're hoping to have him back available again round about January-time, so it's a positive, but both goalkeepers (Aaron Chapman and Jordan Archer) have done well since coming in, it's an area that we're strong in again.

"Trevor's lay-off is going to be shorter than expected. Initially you always fear the worst when you get an injury, and someone has to come off, a boy as Trevor is - he's not somebody who comes off with small issues.

"The operation has gone well, we're quietly hopeful that we'll get Trevor back again after Christmas.

"For him personally, and mentally as well, it's tough. People don't realise when you're stuck on your own in a treatment room for six or seven months it's soul-destroying, it's difficult.

"We don't have the greatest facilities here, so to be up in our freezing-cold gym for six months is difficult and he has shown great mental strength and character to come back from what he has been through and he will do the exact same again, there's no doubt whatsoever."