CHRISTOPHER DILO is almost certainly out of St Mirren's match with Dundee United on Saturday.

The French goalkeeper has been a revelation in recent matches after replacing David Cornell between the sticks and has been instrumental in Saints' three-game unbeaten run.

Dilo, however, injured a knee in an accidental collision with team-mate Darren McGregor during Saturday's 4-3 win over St Johnstone and will discover the extent of the damage later today.

Manager Danny Lennon is now facing up to the possibility of being without the 19-year-old for the trip to Tannadice.

He said: "Chris is going to be doubtful for us and that's a bit of a blow. I think it was actually Darren McGregor who clattered him and he has done some damage to the outside of his knee.

"Chris has come in and grasped his opportunity well. He looks to be maturing and benefiting from the experience gained from playing every week.

"It's early days and we'll monitor the situation. But he's certainly looking doubtful for this week. It was an innocuous way the injury came about but that's part and parcel of football. When it happens it's always an opportunity for someone else. You move on and deal with the tools you have available."

Dilo's loss would seem to be Cornell's gain, with the Welshman set to come off the bench to regain his place in the team. Lennon hopes he would make the most of the opportunity.

He added: "David has already had invaluable experience of going in there and he's got to use it and cash in on it - if he's given the starting position on Saturday.

"If that is the case then it's Chris that has to fight back once he returns but you want healthy competition in all quarters. Goalkeeper is a specialised area and I don't profess to have a great deal of knowledge about it, to be perfectly honest.

"But we have two goalkeepers who are very comfortable with the ball at their feet and two that are capable of producing saves. The biggest test for them at this moment in time is their temperament."

Lennon was delighted to see his team continue their good form by beating St Johnstone but admitted the loss of three sloppy goals was still a concern.

He added: "You move on and think about the next one but you take the positives from the game. And those positives are three very valuable points, a very spirited performance, and back to back wins, which is something we've not done in a long time.

"I was disappointed with the goals we conceded. They are things we will address and continue to work hard on and make it better for the next game."