Today's News | Sport | Features | Email Contacts | Letters | The Tele | D C Thomson | Annuals | Subscriptions | Old Dundee

Headlines
Sport Stories
Get the Tele from...

31 August 2006
Alex expects late night
Moves elsewhere, or a lack of them, will determine whether or not Dundee succeed in a last-minute bid to make a signing before the transfer window closes (writes Tom Duthie).
Dens boss Alex Rae was spending most of today either on the phone or waiting for it ring as he continued attempts to bolster his squad. Two attacking players, in particular, are on his wanted list, but, first thing today, inquires were being made about a third as a back-up.

The problem for Alex, though, was that the clubs who employ his main targets wanted replacements in before they would do business with Dundee.

“It could be a late night, because I am waiting for news of other deals to go through before I can proceed with the business I want to do,” he said.

“I understand the situation, but I am still determined to bring someone in, so I have made contact about another player just in case. Obviously, there are no guarantees, but, right now, I still believe I can get a player who would make a real impact in our team.”

As usual in advance of anything concrete being done, Alex was not naming any of the men involved, but former Clyde striker Alex Williams has been linked after returning from a short spell in Australia.

Leaving Dens today was local boy Stephen McNally, who has been released from his contract and is expected to join Second Division Peterhead. The full-back was one of the players told they were free to find a new club just before the season started.

Meanwhile, even without new signings, the Dundee squad has been bolstered by skipper Bobby Mann confirming his return to fitness with a goal in a closed-door friendly against Stirling Albion last night.

Also involved were Danny Griffin and Derek Lyle, both of whom need match practice.

While most clubs will have a free weekend as international fixtures take centre stage, a large chunk of the Dark Blues squad will be on duty on Saturday for another closed-door game. This time, Rangers will provide the opposition.