Even with the league still in its infancy, that’s not the kind of gap Mann feels they can afford to see opening up.

“After a bad start, we’ve got to get a run of results going and what we have to produce is probably championship form between now and the end of the season if we are to get up there,” he said.

“It’s early and I know it’s a long way to go, but other teams have good starts and we are nine points behind.

“The fact there are a few above us is worrying, because they won’t all have a slump and, in terms of squads, some of them are probably stronger than us.”

Mann, though, believes that if Dundee can copy the winning habit that’s seen Gretna rise rapidly through the lower divisions, they can still feature at the top of their division.

He cites the Borderers 3-0 win when the teams met in the Scottish Cup semi-final back in April as a perfect example of what is required.

“It was not one-sided, but Gretna still won well and that’s why they’ve achieved what they have. Maybe they do not always play at their best, but they have a winning mentality and, however they are playing, can come out on top.

“That’s definitely something the young boys here can learn from. It’s all about belief and it’s by winning you get that.

“We really need a few wins in a row to boost confidence, but winning this one would probably be worth two or three in terms of that and I believe we are definitely capable.”

Mann will be leading the team out for the first time since the opening day of the season, when he lasted little over 40 minutes before straining ankle ligaments.

The last two weeks, in particular, have seen him working hard in training and he is ready for the challenge at Raydale Park.

“Touch wood, my ankle is fine. I’ve not had any reaction and I’ve had a couple of closed-door games and trained for well over a week.

“It was frustrating being out for so long and it is the first bad injury I’ve had for a while. However, if you look at how long people like my mate Lee Wilkie have been battling to get back, then you think yourself lucky and get on with it.”

Manager Alex Rae views Mann’s return as a major boost and, although Gretna will provide the toughest opposition to date, he is relishing the task.

“They are the form team, but this is a good challenge for us. We want to see where we are and the easiest way to judge that is by playing the best,” he said.

Out tomorrow is centre-half Gary McKenzie after his midweek ankle operation, while an ankle problem continues to sideline teenage striker Bryan Deasley, though he will return to training on Monday.