Aberdeen manager Derek McInnes is confident his side can win without midfielder Jonny Hayes.
The Irishman is already a leading contender for the club’s player of the season award, but will miss the next month after damaging his hamstring in Monday’s 3-1 defeat by Caley Thistle.
Aberdeen captain Ryan Jack and Willo Flood return for tonight’s match against Partick Thistle at Firhill after recovering from their hamstring injuries.
McInnes said: “Both are in the squad after a week to 10 days of full training with the team and I’m delighted to get them both back.
“Jonny is out for three to four weeks with his hamstring, which was confirmed the other night and that’s disappointing.
“He’s been really influential. He brings pace, quality and real tenacity to the team. He can play two or three positions as well so he has versatility.
“But rather than mumping and moaning and feeling sorry for ourselves about losing a player it’s someone else’s opportunity and a chance for them to come in and play their part.
“Cammy Smith and Peter Pawlett contributed to the victory at St Johnstone and Craig Storie has contributed.
“It’s important everyone takes the chance when it comes along.”
McInnes was surprised that retrospective action was not taken by Scottish FA compliance officer Tony McGlennan against Caley Thistle midfielder Ross Draper for his part in a controversial penalty award on Monday.
The Dons felt the Englishman went to ground too easily following a challenge from Dons defender Ash Taylor.
The Aberdeen manager said: “We were disappointed, angry and frustrated on the night and nothing changes from that in the cold light of day.
“But for me there’s not a lot of merit in dwelling on that. We’ve got a game against Partick Thistle and have to concentrate on that.
“I’m surprised at some of the decisions, but we move on. I’ve said what I had to say at the time, I think it was clear, and nothing has changed.”
The Dons can move level on points with leaders Celtic with a victory against Partick but McInnes added: “I say before every Partick Thistle game how good a side they are. They’ve got games in hand and will have top six aspirations.
“It’s always a challenge away from home. We’ve had three tough away games in a row – St Johnstone, Inverness and now Partick.
“They are all capable of beating us and we’ve got to make sure we bring a good performance because they will believe they can make the top six.”