And the season-long loan for influential midfielder Alexei Eremenko could end this month if Metalist Kharkiv decide to sell the playmaker.

BBC: Conor Sammon turns down Scunthorpe move

But Esson was busy again on the hour when Eremenko danced through the home defence to set up a shooting opportunity.

BBC: Sport - Football - Inverness CT 1-3 Kilmarnock

Conor Sammon's 14th goal of the season gave Killie a half-time lead, the striker converting a rebound shot after Alexei Eremenko's free-kick was saved.

BBC: Killie boss Mixu Paatelainen relieved to beat Aberdeen