STEVEN MacLEAN is pushing for a surprise Tayside derby return for St Johnstone.

The Perth club's Scottish Cup final goal hero has been ruled out of manager Tommy Wright's plans for four months after undergoing career saving knee surgery.

But the striker has returned to training and Wright may be tempted to throw MacLean into the top six weekend clash with Dundee United.

The 32-year-old attacker has impressed in training and if he continues to shine this week, he could face the Tangerines at McDiarmid.

Wright needs a replacement for Brian Graham, who is ruled out by the terms of the season-long loan agreement struck between Saints and United.

And the Perth boss could be tempted to turn to MacLean, who underwent an operation in September after an impressive start to the season in Europe and on the domestic scene.

MacLean feared his career was in jeopardy after a repeat of surgery which kept him sidelined for four months last season, before he bounced back to round off the campaign with a memorable strike in the 2-0 cup final win over United.

Defender Tam Scobbie is also back in training after medial ligament surgery in September..

Former Scotland star James McFadden missed out against Inverness Caley Thistle but could force his way back into contention if his hamstring injury continues to improve.