Adams: Well still have plenty to play for

Motherwell forward Derek Adams insists that the season is not heading for an anti-climax as the club prepare for St Johnstone's visit to Fir Park.

Many believe the Scottish Premier League will have lost its spark because Celtic have clinched the title and only Dundee United and St Mirren are fighting to avoid relegation.

But Adams believes that the race for seventh place can offer younger players the chance to prove themselves.

"Naturally, we are disappointed at not making the top six but we are now playing in the second part of the league and we want to finish on top of that league," said Adams.

"There is no lack of motivation in the dressing room. There are players playing for contracts, and playing for pride and as professional footballers we want to go out and win games.

"Perhaps this set-up takes a little of the pressure off the young boys and gives them an opportunity which might not have been possible in the top six.

"There are some promising young players coming through and we hope the supporters will give them as much encouragement as possible."

New skipper Scott Leitch (ankle) and defender Benito Kemble (thigh strain) are doubtful but midfielder Paul Harvey returns to the squad after six months out with a back injury. Derek Townsley is out with a calf strain.

St Johnstone manager Sandy Clark will blood some of his fringe players with Nick Dasovic missing out through suspension and John Paul McBride injured. Brendan Crozier and Marc McCulloch look certain to gain a run in the first team.