Neil McCann’s assessment on Sportscene following Dundee’s defeat to Hearts was both optimistic and realistic. With consistency, he suggested, Dundee could stake a strong claim for fourth place, and he’s not wrong.
Just a few weeks ago, Dundee climbed above Motherwell with a win, only for the Steelmen to reclaim fourth spot after just two games.
This serves as a reminder of how quickly the Premiership table can shift. A consistent run could propel Dundee into a far more comfortable position in the top six and I believe we are good enough to do it.
We go away to Rangers on Saturday, they’ll be looking to take their frustrations out on us after their League Cup final heartbreak
As usual this one is a write-off. Regardless, we must give a good account of ourselves at Ibrox. We have been leaking too many goals all season and maybe a test under relentless pressure from Rangers is required to get our defensive shape and habits in form.
While I’m doubtful about a positive result at Ibrox, I do believe the fixtures afterwards (Ross County at home, St Mirren away and the derby at Dens) are there for the taking to end 2024 on a strong note and head into 2025 with a bang.
Tony Docherty has offered eight of our current squad contract extensions but no doubt he’ll still be analysing a catalogue of potential signings for his Christmas list for the upcoming transfer window. Top of the fans’ Christmas wishlist – and I am no different – is a win in the new year’s derby.
I am confident most players offered new deals will stay on, stability in the first team is crucial for the club to maintain its position of competing in the top flight.
We have witnessed several squad overhauls in the last decade and have suffered dearly from the lack of stability as a result. It’s one of the factors why we have succumbed to relegation twice in the last five years.
The one I don’t expect to stay is Lyall Cameron. Much like his former midfield partner Luke McCowan, he appears to be destined for a bigger challenge so we have to enjoy him while he is still here.
The 22-year-old has a strong legacy at the club as things stand and should he depart in the summer, I hope he strengthens that by leaving on a high note with the team accomplishing a better feat this season. A few derby goals wouldn’t hurt either.