“St Johnstone have just beaten a Premierleague team comprehensively and, with a bit of luck, that would have been the second top-flight team they’d beaten in a week, so that says everything about the form they are in,” he said.

“Quietly, we’ve been going about our business well, too. Saturday was our third clean sheet in a row and I have to say the boys played exceptionally well. That means this Saturday should be a right good game between two teams at the top of their form.”

Reflecting on the 3-0 win at Airdrie United, Alex heaped further praise on two-goal striker Derek Lyle, a man who was sent off inside 10 minutes last time Saints visited Dens Park.

“That’s forgotten about and had more to do with a linesman than anything that happened with Saints players, so I’m sure it will not be an issue for Derek,” added Alex.

“We missed him badly when he was suspended for a few weeks after that red card. He definitely gives us something we miss without him and he was excellent again on Saturday.”

Such has been the form of the team as a whole, that Alex himself does not expect any more than a place on the bench again this weekend. It’s a situation he will not be worried over, if results mean he continues to be a spectator.

“It really does not bother me and it’s a good opportunity to get a look from the sidelines. The boys are playing well and, if that means I’m not getting a game, it is a good thing.”