Dundee Preview

If the saying about only being as good as your last game holds true, we should be feeling very confident. We finished last season with a 6-2 demolition of Livingston and we showed just how well we could play when the pressure was off and we were able to relax. Sadly, the pressure will be on again come Saturday afternoon but our pre-season form does mean there is cause for optimism.

First game of the season on Saturday

We took a couple of games to get settled but against Ayr, Carlisle and Fulham we played some lovely passing football. The players are looking comfortable on the ball and there is plenty of third man running. The defence has been improved dramatically by bringing in Craigan for Vaughan and the introduction of Alex Burns to the squad has given us another big goal threat.

However, even at this early stage it looks like we will not be able to play our first choice eleven. Derek Adams is suspended and according to press reports Keith Lasley will be missing with a knee injury. This will be disappointing for Keith who looks to have found his form again after struggling a bit last year. On the bright side, McFadden should be fit enough to start after his twenty minute run against Fulham and Captain Leitch should shake off a knock and be fit to start.

Gordon Marshall will be goals behind a back four of Corrigan, Craigan, Partridge and Hammell. Pearson and Leitch will definitely be in the middle and it is likely that McFadden will be asked to play in a slightly deeper role. The other spot will be contested by Kevin McDonald and Kenny Wright. Alex Burns is guaranteed his place up front and he will be joined by either Clarkson or Craig – David is probably the slight favourite to get the nod.

Dundee will be without Fabian Cabellero but they have also enjoyed a good pre-season and will fancy their chances on building on their success last season.

It should turn out to be an enjoyable game and both sides will be happy with a 2-2 draw.