That meant there was no room for fellow-trialists — Namibian striker Arend Von Stryck or Zimbabwean Brian Badza, who, in any case, is carrying an ankle injury.

Also sitting out today’s 90 minutes was Lee Wilkie.

The former Dundee central defender is trying to earn himself a contract at Tannadice, but, having already featured in two reserve games, the 26-year-old has only one more chance to convince Craig he is worth a deal.

“Lee won’t play today and we don’t have any reserve games next week because of the CIS Cup, so it’ll be another fortnight or so before he gets another game. Then we’ll have to make our minds up over what we are going to do,” added Craig.

Left-sided midfielder Barrau (23), who has had spells at Lyon and Walsall, turned down the chance to join Ross County last week in the hope of earning a move to a top-flight club.

Also featuring this afternoon was youngster David Goodwillie, who was set to partner the player/manager in attack.

Ankle injury-victim Steven Robb, meanwhile, may return to training later in the week.

“Steven could join in with the rest of the boys on Thursday, but it’s too early to say if he’ll be fit for the Inverness Caley game on Saturday,” added Craig.

Former Dundee United favourite Charlie Miller grabbed a late winner as Brann Bergen won 2-1 at Stabaek to remain top of the Norwegian League. Another ex-Tangerine, Robbie Winters, opened the scoring for the league leaders.

“He’s here this morning and, over the next few days, he’ll join in with the boys in training,” said Alex.

“He’ll be at the club for the best part of a fortnight — it’s a long way to come just for a couple of days — so he’ll get a good opportunity to show what he can do.”

The Dark Blues’ only injury concern from the thumping 4-0 win at Gretna is Andy McLaren, but the manager is confident the striker will be fit for the visit of Queen of the South at the weekend.

“Andy has a slight calf strain, but it’s nothing serious and I’m sure he’ll be OK for Saturday,” added Alex.

Meanwhile, despite turning them over on their own patch at the weekend, the Dens gaffer still thinks Gretna are the team to beat when it comes to winning the title.

“Saturday was a great win for us, but it has not really changed my opinion of how the league is going to pan out.

“Gretna are still the team everyone has to aim for and, if someone finishes above them, I think they will be champions.

“The squad Rowan (Alexander) has at his disposal gives them an advantage, because, while most of the other teams couldn’t cope with losing two or three players, they have enough quality in reserve.

“We have proved you can compete with them and I’m sure that will have given other teams a lot of heart.”

Hardie received what Saints’ player-boss Owen Coyle referred to as “a whack on the back” against Partick Thistle and Milne was taken off in that game with a calf injury.

Saints are unbeaten this season and go to Cappielow with confidence.

Advancement in the Challenge Cup will mean extra games for the Perth club in what has been a packed schedule already — but they don’t mind.

Midfield man Paul Sheerin explained, “Players would rather play than train, especially if the team is going well.

“Morton are also flying so this should be a great game and, hopefully, at the end of it, we’ll be in the Challenge Cup semis.”

Paul has already been to a Challenge Cup Final but it holds bitter memories for him. As an ICT player, he was in the side which lost to Alloa.

As he looked ahead to tonight’s game at Cappielow, he said, “It’s a while since I’ve played there, but I’m looking forward to the game.”

Footnote — The last time a Saints side played at Cappielow it was their supporters’ team. They played a national cup final there — and won.

ARBROATH head for Coatbridge tonight to meet Albion Rovers in their quarter-final.

Jamie Bishop, ordered off in the league match between the sides at Gayfield on Saturday, which Albion won, is available and in the Red Lichties’ squad.

Arbroath report no injury worries and manager John McGlashan commented, “This game is coming soon after our defeat in the league against Albion and the players will be out to show what they can do.”

Tonight’s other ties see Clyde at home to Ayr and Ross County hosting Gretna.