David Hannah is using the CIS Cup Third Round which is due to be played on 9th or 10th October 9 as a target to get back to full fitness.
United's vice-captain was hurt early in the second half of the defeat by Livingston on 8 August when he sustained knee ligament damage and was expected to be out for five weeks but he is determined to return within that timescale.
"I am back running again, but I haven't kicked a ball for a while, so I won't make Saturday's game against Hearts. The CIS Cup match against St. Johnstone will be an interesting game because it is a local derby and every one of the United players will want to be part of it. I am no different and I have really been working on my own fitness and if everything goes to plan I should be fit for the cup game."