AYR United boss Lee Bullen says that some of the squad's injured players could make their return as soon as this weekend.

The Honest Men have been without a number of crocked stars this season - forcing a rebuild of the squad as the season only just began.

But there may be light at the end of the tunnel, with a quartet of players now edging closer to a return.

Speaking to the Advertiser, Bullen provided an update on some long-term absentees.

He said: “We’ve had Ben [Dempsey], Aiden [McGeady], Frankie [Musonda] and Nick [McAllister] out for a while.

“Ben and Aiden are doing really well in training, it might be too early but potentially they will be able to come into the squad on Saturday – but it might be a week too early – so that’s good.

“Nick and Frankie are back running so they’re probably a couple of weeks away yet, but there’s more light at the end of the tunnel."

Bullen is now hoping that their impending return can be coupled with a win against Partick Thistle, putting Ayr into a strong position as they continue their second round of fixtures.

He added: “If we can get the win on Tuesday and get those four lads back from injury we’re in a much stronger position.

“It gives me a headache picking teams but I’d much rather have it that way than have boys sitting on the injury table.”