Loan star Alex Kirk has given Ayr United a welcome injury boost.
The Arsenal centre half had looked to be sidelined for up to three months after being stretchered off at Inverness last weekend.
But initial fears over an ankle fracture have proved unfounded, with the 20-year-old now targeting a return early in the New Year.
Kirk underwent an MRI scan after returning south to be treated by Gunners medics, with United fearing he would be ruled out for up to 12 weeks.
However, Ayr and the player have received much better news than expected with no fracture uncovered.
Head coach Lee Bullen told the Ayrshire Post: "It’s really positive news.
“We had been fearing the end of February for Alex’s return but things are now looking far better.
“Hopefully after a few weeks of rest he can start training again and we’ll be able to get him back with us in January, which would be great news all round."
The news comes as a timely boost with fellow centre half Frankie Musonda's calf strain continuing to keep the Zambian international sidelined ahead of this Saturday's visit of former club Raith.
Meanwhile, Ayr will use the free week scheduled for the SPFL Trust Trophy on Saturday, December 10 to travel to face Dundee United in a friendly.
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