Ross County vs Queen of South preview - McNamee blow for County

First Division leaders Ross County are without defender David McNamee against bottom-side Queen of the South.

The former Scotland player broke his wrist in training this week and is out for several weeks.

Defender Marc Fitzpatrick remains out with a knee injury, with Dingwall manager Derek Adams giving his opponents full respect despite the length of the First Division separating them.

Adams said: "They did very well against Aberdeen recently and they will be fighting for everything just as I hope we are.

"They brought in good experienced players in January when John Potter and Sam Parkin arrived so they will be strong opponents.

"We are going into the game on the back of a good win at Ayr in midweek and I want us to build on that."

Queen of the South travel the length of the country and expect to have former Scotland international Allan Johnston available after injury.

Stephen Simmons is suspended with Marc McCusker and Kevin Smith remaining out with knocks.

Manager Gus McPherson said: "It is looking good for Allan, which is great news as we are a better team when he plays. His experience in the middle of the park will be really important up at Dingwall."

Derek Adams' side impressed McPherson when he saw them win 3-2 at Ayr in midweek and he added: "They have a mental toughness as they won in an away game after losing a two-goal lead and we will have to match that to prosper."