He has not kicked a ball in anger since suffering the fracture against Aberdeen and the healing process has taken longer than was originally anticipated.

“My leg wasn’t right and I’ve been resting it, but it is feeling a lot better and the running around while I am doing my ‘A’ Licence next week should definitely help ease me back in,” said Craig, who plans to make himself available to play next season.

Moves, meanwhile, continue to prove slow to materialise at Tannadice and the chances of available Spanish striker David Fernandez heading through the exit have diminished after Kilmarnock dropped interest in him. Although Rugby Park boss Jim Jefferies is an admirer of the former Livingston and Celtic man, he has admitted Fernandez’s wages are out of his league.

Freed keeper Craig Samson has signed a pre-contract agreement with Ross County for next term.

Paul Hegarty was today confirmed as Maurice Malpas’ No. 2 at Motherwell.

On Tuesday, he is due to have talks with players whose contracts are expiring and others who may be asked to take wage cuts, probably in exchange for extended deals.

As he bids to strengthen both in terms of numbers and experience, he will also be continuing to speak to potential signing targets, many of whom he first contacted as soon as he new he was in the running for the Dundee manager’s post.

“I’m only away for a few days because there is a lot to do. Money is still tight, so we’ll have to do a lot of wheeling and dealing to get people in, but I’m hopeful we’ll succeed,” he said.

Enquires about fresh talent have included talks with old club Rangers about the possibility of a loan deal.

Alex’s No. 2 Davie Farrell was not at yesterday’s Press conference to announce the new appointments, but he is also already working on getting new faces in and arrangements for the pre-season build-up.

Meanwhile, ex-Saints keeper Scott Findlay is jetting out to Spain next week to speak to Levante about a deal. Two other Spanish clubs have also expressed an interest in the 22-year-old.