Kilmarnock boss Mixu Paatelainen has almost accepted winger James Dayton will miss the remainder of the SPL season through injury. The 21-year-old summer signing scored a stunning 30-yard strike against St Mirren before being stretchered off in agony after suffering cruciate ligament damage.

The Finn has bemoaned the timing of the injury as the ex-Crystal Palace youngster had impressed during his short time at Rugby Park this term.

"James has unfortunately done his cruciate ligament so he will be out for many months," conceded Paatelainen. "We will know more after he has seen the specialist.

"It's a big blow as he has done so well since he came here and what a goal he scored against St Mirren. That shows what he can produce.

"But now he will probably be out for the season. James caught his studs in the turf as he went to turn, there was no tackle and as he turned it just went."