However, since Craig was officially unveiled on Monday, the United switchboard has been flooded with enquiries about tickets for this Saturday.

In fact, the game is pay-at-the-gate, but such has been the demand that the Tangerines have decided to take the unusual step for a category ‘A’ game of giving The Shed to home fans.

It’s understood Arabs will be travelling from as far away as London in this country and there has even been talk of some flying in from overseas just to see the 1994 Scottish Cup hero’s first game in charge.

That has prompted this move by the club and now they are looking for the support to respond by turning out in big numbers.

“There has been a huge and unprecedented interest in this game since Craig Brewster was confirmed as manager,” said chairman Eddie Thompson.

“We’ve been inundated with enquires from United fans, from far and near, who want to attend the game and have demanded additional accommodation.

“In view of this and despite the financial risks involved, we have decided to overturn normal policy and allocate The Shed to United fans. It’s now up to the fans to justify this and I’m sure they will.”

Aberdeen will still be left with space for 3700 fans and, although that is less than the number who travelled for the Scottish Cup clash between the clubs just under a fortnight ago, it is expected to be more than adequate provision for a league game.

Despite the extra space they are getting, United fans are urged to turn up early to avoid congestion. The Shed will be cash gates only and season tickets will not be valid.

Meanwhile, new boss Craig is likely to name himself as one of the substitutes against the Dons.

“I’ll probably be on the bench. I’ve still to make that decision, but I think if I am involved it will be as a sub,” he said today.

The goal threat he provides apart, a lack of numbers could also have a big influence when it comes to naming the team. As well as long-term injury victim Lee Mair, midfielder Barry Robson definitely misses out on Saturday because he is still suspended, while it is looking increasingly likely that skipper Paul Ritchie will be sidelined by the dead leg that forced him off against Falkirk last Sunday.

“Paul has only done some light jogging and not done any work with the rest of the squad, so there is obviously a concern about him,” added Craig. “When we have a couple of players doubtful or out, it does show the squad here is tight, but someone will come in and it will be an opportunity for them.”

Collin Samuel is a slight doubt for the best possible reason — his wife should have given birth to their first child before the day is out.

Craig dismissed speculation linking him with moves for his ex-Dunfermline team-mates Greg Shields and Scott Wilson, and admitted it would be unlikely that he would make any signings during this transfer window.

“Funnily enough, I was speaking to Greg just last night because he is a good friend of mine, but where this story came from I really don’t know. They are both really good players, but I have a squad of players here who have to be given their chance,” he added.

The manager has been looking to add experienced players as well, but, so far, the arrivals have been restricted to youngster Colin Marshall and cover goalkeeper Andy Britton.

And a trip to England this week ended with a thumbs down for the player he was watching.

As things stand, the next likely development is another departure and, while no firm offers have as yet been forthcoming, there has been interest in out-of-favour striker Tam McManus.

“We’ve had a few calls about McManus and a few people have been in touch with him as well, so there might be something there, although nothing is imminent,” said Alan.

“I am still looking round for people I can bring in, but, the way I see it right now, I think it will be a case of someone moving out first.

“I would like to bring a player in if it was possible, but I am not under any pressure to make signings in this window. I definitely will not be signing someone just because it increases the numbers — I’ll only bring in players I feel will improve the squad.”

Meanwhile, there are no fresh injury worries for Saturday’s trip to face Brechin at Glebe Park.

Next month, fans who have opened one of the new Soccer Savings accounts at the Dunfermline Building Society will get the chance to go along to Dens to have their picture taken with Alan and his players.

The new accounts are being billed as a way for supporters to save money for themselves and help their favourite clubs as well.

Steven McKeown, the trialist full-back from Leeds, has done “all right” at Saints this week, according to Saints boss Owen Coyle, who will decide whether he wants a further look at the player over the weekend. Regarding other ins and outs, Owen was steadfastly tight-lipped. However, the McDiarmid Park outfit have been linked with Sam Morrow of Hibs and Airdrie midfielder Martin Hardie.