“Yesterday we had to train in the gym and, today, the ground was even harder outside, so there was not much real ball work we could do and the boy has not really been able to show how good he is,” said Alex.

“He’s a free agent, though, and that means I have time to look at him — I don’t need to have him signed up before the end of the transfer window.

“Our kids are back from their winter training in Cyprus in a few days and that will give us enough bodies for a bounce game, so, if conditions improve, I might try to arrange one for next week and he can play in that.”

While he has been unable to check on the former FC Augsburg wide man’s ability, Alex has already been impressed with his attitude.

Paass, who has had trials with Falkirk and Kilmarnock in the past few months, had the chance to switch to Cyprus, but wants to earn a deal in a more established league to enhance his chances of adding to his two international caps.

“That shows he is keen and wants to do well. We could certainly do with another player who is comfortable out wide and we’ll see how he does once we can get him out on a decent surface.”

Meanwhile, no offers have been forthcoming for transfer-listed skipper Bobby Mann, though Dundee expect that to change between now and the end of the month.

“Bobby is keen to be playing every week and that is why he asked for a move. He has a lot of experience and knows the game at this level, so I would think there will be interest in him,” added Alex.