Caley Thistle yesterday failed in an attempt to have this afternoon’s Premiership fixture against Hamilton Accies postponed due to a goalkeeping crisis, leaving Owain Fon Williams set to play through the pain.
Inverness were already short of back-up options after veteran Ryan Esson suffered a groin injury in Tuesday’s Development League match against Hearts, with under-20s goalkeeper Daniel Hoban also injured.
Caley Jags also allowed Cammy Mackay to return for a second spell on loan at League 2 side Elgin City last week.
The situation became even bleaker this week when Fon Williams complained of back spasms during training, while the club also failed in an attempt to recall Mackay from his loan with Elgin.
Caley Jags requested a postponement of the fixture but it proved unsuccessful, with Fon Williams now ready to play today despite the lingering doubt over his condition.
Despite the goalkeeping crisis, Inverness manager Richie Foran has laid down the challenge to his players by declaring today’s game a must-win encounter.
Inverness have slipped to the bottom of the table after a poor run of four straight losses, and have conceded more goals than any other team.
He said: “It’s a must-win game for us, simple as that – we need to get back to winning ways.
“No disrespect is intended, Hamilton will be saying exactly the same.
“Martin Canning will be telling his players it is a must-win match. They will say they should be beating Inverness and I’m saying we should be beating Hamilton at home. This place needs to be a fortress.
“We need to be winning our home games and we need to win this one. We’ve got players with composure and mental strength, so I’m sure it won’t be nervy. Last week wasn’t good enough but the week before, in some ways, was our best of the season, although we lost.
“It’s time we stood up and started putting in good performances every week – and getting the victories we need.”