Dundee United striker Joe Westley is available for Saturday's Premiership match against Motherwell after deciding to play through a broken cheekbone with a protective mask. The forward suffered the injury during the recent away defeat to Hearts but has opted against surgery to feature this weekend.
Head coach Steven Pressley confirmed the news, revealing Westley had messaged him on Sunday to confirm his readiness. "That's the one positive bit of news," Pressley said. "He could potentially make the game. He's desperate to play." The manager added that the player's attitude was typical, stating, "He would have been back for the next one but that’s not Joe. Joe just wants to play."
Westley's availability provides a timely boost for a Dundee United side sitting sixth in the Premiership with seven points from six games. His return offsets a series of other fitness concerns within the squad. Midfielder Ryan Finnigan is a major doubt for the Motherwell clash due to an ankle issue that has prevented him from training fully.
Defender Joe Wright faces approximately three weeks out with a hamstring tear, while Charlie Reilly remains sidelined with a broken toe. Forward Ash Hay has returned to training but is not expected to be available until after the upcoming international break. Ethan Hamilton is fit and available.
The decision to play through the injury shows Westley's commitment as Dundee United aim to build on their recent form, which includes three wins from their last five league matches. The team's next challenge after Motherwell is a trip to face second-placed Rangers on 30 December.
Further reading: Daily Record Football
