“The boys did well against Everton and we were also pleased with the performance at Airdrie last Saturday,” he said.

“They kept clean sheets in both of these games, created a few chances, and showed that things were coming together well.

“Maybe the fact there are a lot of boys moving to the area at the same time, and who are in the same boat has helped, but, whatever the reason, we want it to continue and we are looking to do well tomorrow.”

Gordon declined to reveal how close the starting line-up against the Sons will be to the side that faces Hibs in the first league game a week later, and was keen to stress the bid for a successful campaign would involve the whole squad.

“I’m not going to say how close this team will be to next week’s, but there are still places up for grabs.

“Over the season, it is not going to be about just 11 players.

“We have a squad of 20 and it is important they stick together and work hard for success because they will all have a part to play.”

Available striker Allan Smart has joined Steven Carson on trial at Barnsley.

Meanwhile, Daniele Chiarini will meet with boss Ian McCall on Monday to discuss his future, which lies away from Tannadice.

“Last night was a good chance to have a look at someone who plays in a position we do not have a great deal of cover for,” he said.

“Jonay Hernandez is really our only natural left-sided defender and, now that he has been called up to the Venezuela squad, we have to think about whether he is going to be missing games in the future because of internationals.

“Tom has played at a high standard for most of his career and he showed last night he is still fit and knows the position. He would also bring good experience to the squad, but it is not just a matter of signing him.

“We have to consider the finance of adding another body, and there are a few other factors as well. Jonay will start tomorrow, but Tom will play at some stage so I can have another look and we will take things from there.”

Cowan has been around and, after starting at Clyde in the late 1980s, had spells with Rangers, Sheffield United, Stoke City, Huddersfield Town, Burnley, Cambridge, Peterborough and York City.

Brent Sancho missed out on a debut last night because international clearance did not arrive, but it is still hoped that will come through in time for what promises to be a tougher test tomorrow.

“It was a good game for us last night and Kettering were a decent young side, but I would expect to get it harder tomorrow,” Jim continued. “Results are not everything in pre-season and, as a manager, what you are really looking for are signs that things are progressing. Even so, you do not want to lose any game you are involved in and tomorrow will be no different.

“Things have been going well and what I am after is for the players to keep things going in the right direction.”

Midfielder Barry Forbes has been loaned out to Hamilton Accies in a six-month deal.