STEVEN Thomson will be forced to miss tomorrow nights SPL clash at home to St Johnstone after being hit with a one match ban.
The St Mirren bad boy has been suspended after picking up a caution during Saints 2-0 SPL defeat to Rangers towards the end of last month.
The former Brighton stars yellow card against the Old Firm side has taken him through the 18 points disciplinary barrier.
Thomson also received a caution in the league against Celtic as well as a straight red card against Hibs at Easter Road in the first game of the season.
The one time Falkirk star has forged a good partnership in the middle of the park with Hugh Murray over recent weeks.
But come tomorrow, MacPherson will be forced to shuffle the pack and could draft in the likes of Garry Brady or Stephen ODonnell as possible replacements.
MacPherson yesterday admitted his side cannot afford to look too far ahead in this packed schedule of games.
Saints have their Co-operative Insurance Cup Final with Rangers at Hampden to contest next month, while they also take on Walter Smiths side next Wednesday in their Active Nation Scottish Cup fifth round replay at Ibrox.
MacPherson insists that the only thing on the minds of the players at the moment is tomorrows SPL game at home to St Johnstone.
He said: The next game is always the most important one and that will be our mentality between now and the end of the season.
The game will be St Mirrens 10th clash since the turn of the year.
So far they have played six games in the league, one in the League Cup and two in the Active Nation Scottish Cup.
The manager added: SPL football is tough, so we have to make sure we are ready when these challenges come along.
Saints last night struck an agreement with Rangers that will allow children under-16, accompanied by an adult, free admission to next Wednesdays Active Nation Scottish Cup Fifth Round replay with the Old Firm giants at Ibrox.
In addition, admission prices for this game will be reduced to just £15 for adults and £5 concessions.
General Manager, Brian Caldwell said: Since the start of the New Year it has been tough financially for football fans with games being played every weekend and midweek.
Our supporters have been affected and we are aware of the financial burden that they have undertaken in following the team, which is why we are more than happy to agree on this scheme with Rangers.
While the prices should help from a financial standpoint the free entry for accompanied children under 16 will help to bring a family atmosphere to the cup replay which should help to add to the occasion.
We hope this shows our appreciation to our fans in their continued support of the Club.
Tickets will go on general sale for half-an-hour right after the St Johnstone game on Wednesday from the St Mirren Ticket Office. Thereafter the Ticket Office will be open on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, as well as Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday of next week to sell briefs.
