“In terms of attitude and approach, we have to be much better — if we are not we will be in big trouble,” he said. “On Saturday, we just were not at the races. We’ve lost a goal in a minute and 11 seconds and, over the game, paid the price for individual errors. That’s because minds were on the cup and not the job in hand and that is not good enough. On Thursday, we will be up against their first team and we have to get it right.”

One boost for Dundee today was the news Bobby Mann is expected to be in his usual place despite limping off on Saturday with a calf problem.

“Bobby didn’t train today, but we are hopeful he will make it. I don’t think it is anything too serious and the fact we got him off early was a help as well,” added Alan.

And the combination of his performance and the mistakes of those around him, have put the man who replaced Mann, Lee Wilkie, in contention to start. Wilkie’s second-half appearance was his first competitive run-out since last April, but he impressed his manager.

“Lee has come on, scored a goal and made another and in general looked very confident for his first game back. He is a strong character who influences those around him and the way he played has certainly done his chances of starting on Thursday no harm.”

Also back could be keeper Kelvin Jack. He has recovered from a knee problem and was stepping up his training today.

One big hole to be filled will be the absence through suspension of skipper Barry Smith, out after being booked in the fourth round against Airdrie and again at New Douglas Park in the first game of this tie.

“That’s something we are thinking about and we will be working on a few things in training over the next few days.

Barry is obviously a big loss,” said Alan.

With the game screened live by Sky, the clubs have agreed to slash prices to £8 (adults), £2 (concessions).