Dundee manager Tony Docherty praised defender Clark Robertson’s performance in the 2-1 Premiership defeat to Aberdeen on Saturday, and says he was “pleased” with his side’s defensive structure despite the result.

Robertson, 31, signed for the club on a free transfer over the summer but only made his debut against the Dons following a hamstring injury in pre-season.

“I thought Clark was outstanding, he was really good,” Docherty said. “I was looking to bring him into that defensive unit.

“We did a hell of a lot of work to make sure we did everything we could defensively and I thought we really limited them – two shots on target they had.

“We limited a good team to two opportunities from our mistakes.

“I was pleased with the defensive unit – I was pleased with loads about today, our midfield rotation, our switches of play and getting into good areas.

“And as I reiterated to the players, if I keep getting that level of performance consistently, we will be OK.”

Before kick-off, there was a minute’s applause in tribute to former Dundee striker Fabian Caballero, who died suddenly at the age of 46.

“Really saddened,” Docherty said. “The Dundee family are mourning the loss of a brilliant servant to the football club. Huge condolences and sympathy goes out to his family.

“He was here last year for Cammy Kerr’s testimonial and was a larger-than-life character.

“You can see why he made his mark at Dundee and there is huge respect for him. As the Dundee FC family, we mourn his loss.”