Brew vows to stand by Markus

May 18 2008 By Alasdair Fraser

INVERNESS boss Craig Brewster last night revealed the big-hearted club have offered crocked midfielder Markus Paatelainen a contract to see him through his recovery.

Paatelainen, 25, is facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines with a damaged cruciate. But he may also have been without a club as his as current deal at Caley is about to end.

However, they are standing by their man by giving him the security of a new contract.

Gaffer Brewster said after the 0-0 draw with St Mirren: "Markus's scan shows a cruciate injury but he's a great professional. The club have offered him a six-month deal and I think he appreciates that we have decided to stick by him. He'll be out for a minimum of six months. However if any player will come back he certainly has the determination to do it."

Brewster's side scraped a point after having David Proctor sent off. He said: "When you lose Proctor you're hoping you don't concede. Our season has been up and down and we've finished reasonably well."

St Mirren could still leapfrog Caley into ninth with victory over Rangers tomorrow. That would also hand Celtic the title but boss Gus MacPherson says his team have their own priority and can't get wrapped up in other matters.

He said: "The hype around Monday's game has not affected us and we have to be professional.

"We will prepare properly and rest up with just a light session. We're at home and will probably be asked questions defensively but we've done reasonably well and hopefully we can get a result."

Captain John Potter isn't giving up on catching Caley. Potter said: "Monday should be a good atmosphere, a full house and both sides looking to win."