Ryan Jack out for ‘weeks rather than months’

Aberdeen manager Derek McInnes has expressed his relief that Ryan Jack will be out for less time than originally feared. Picture: Ian Rutherford

McInnes was alarmed when the 22-year-old midfielder was carried off during the League Cup win over Livingston in midweek but his fears were allayed following a scan.

Looking ahead to the visit of Inverness on Saturday, the Dons boss told Aberdeen’s official website: “Ryan has a slight tear of his medial ligament. He will be out for a number of weeks but it’s weeks rather than months.

“The knee is responding well to treatment. He’s got severe bone bruising and a slight tear but nothing that’s going to keep him out too long.

“We all feared the worst as he’s an important player and any team would miss Ryan Jack for a period of time.

“Thankfully he’s only going out be for a few weeks.”

After a 3-0 win over Ross County and 4-0 win over Livi, the Granite City men go into the third of four consecutive home matches on a high.

However, McInnes acknowledged Caley’s impressive start to the season in which they have lost only one league game and sit behind leaders Dundee United on goals scored.

The former St Johnstone and Bristol City boss said: “Inverness have made a fantastic start to the season and they got a good win against St Johnstone last weekend.

“They are a good side with good experience in the team and they’ve got a real threat from several areas of the pitch.

“So we’ve got to make sure we’re concentrating fully tomorrow and try and bring a strong performance to win.

“Regardless of what the opposition do we’ve got to find a way to win.”

Aberdeen striker Cammy Smith has had to settle for appearances off the bench this season and is hoping to find a starting place in the absence of Jack.

The 19-year-old told RedTV: “Obviously everyone is gutted about Jacko getting the injury but he will come back fitter and stronger I am sure.

“But it leaves a chance for somebody else to take and whoever that may be will be chomping at the bit.

“I am hoping it is me but if not I will be ready to come on or play whenever I am called upon.

“It is a bit frustrating having to sit on the touchline every week.

“But we have a strong squad and we have to do our bit when we come on.

“We have obviously picked up two great results in the last week and a third has got to be the aim.

“We know it is going to be a tough game. Inverness have started well, it is always close between us so we need to be on our game and be ready for them.”