He said “It’s been tough, your normal preparation changes.
“A normal working week has a game at the end of it — we haven’t had that for the last few weeks.
“We have had to try to keep the players motivated but we have also had to mix the training up and find a balance.
“Some resting has been required but now it’s about ramping it up ahead of the Aberdeen game.”
Hartley also reflected on his list of injuries.
“It’s just been injury after injury in games,” he said.
“We didn’t want the break; players want to play on a Saturday.
“On the other hand, we’re hopeful we will have a stronger squad because of it.
“We still don’t know how the squad will pan out for the match yet. We will have to wait and see.”