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.