PATIENCE has had to be a virtue for Morton goalkeeper Kevin Cuthbert as he fights his way back to fitness from a broken bone in a foot.

The man who made the number one position his own last season has yet to appear this term, and he said: "It's been coming along relatively slowly.

"I thought I would have been back by now. I am doing light training and hope to step it up soon, but it's difficult at this time of year, what with the weather.

"I've been delayed by that. It's not easy. I hope to be involved again by the start of the new year.

"I haven't targeted a game, but maybe round about the Celtic cup tie. I obviously need games, but it's not going to be easy.

"A lot of first team games will probably be off." Cuthbert has still to kick a ball with his recovering foot and he said: "Kicking and pushing off from that foot are the last hurdles to overcome." But, while it has been a frustrating time for Cuthbert, he has been full of praise for the man who has taken his place, Colin Stewart.

He said: "Colin's done well and has probably been our best player over the last 10 or so games. I'm pleased for him.

"It was difficult for him last season, what with injuries and being out of favour with the management. But I'm not surprised at how well he's done. I wouldn't expect any less of him.

"We have two experienced goalkeepers at the club who have proved we can both play at this level. It's going to be difficult for me to get back. I'll just have to work hard for my opportunity.

"You want to be the number one, but I'm not really thinking about that. I am just concentrating on getting fit again."