When Dixon was sidelined by injury back in November, his place was taken by Craig Forsyth and, although he played a starring role in the victory at Livingston, the teenager was the only available replacement.

Although he will be in contention for a place this weekend, he may miss out to experience in the shape of Danny Griffin.

“Obviously, it is a change we don’t want, because the defence has been doing a lot better over the last few games and you wouldn’t want to do anything to disrupt that,” said Alex today.

“At least we have a couple of people who we know can come in a do a good job. Young Craig did well when “Dicker” was injured and I’ve also got Danny Griffin pushing to get back into the team.

“He has been working very hard in training and he’s been impressive. The only thing that has kept him out is the form of the men with the jerseys.

“Danny isn’t a natural left-back, but, like Gary Smith, I know his experience means he could cope with being asked to play on that side.”

And, while he’d rather not have to tinker with his team right now, Alex does admit the one-game break might not do his promising left-back any harm.

“Dicker has done an excellent job for us all season and, if he was available, he’d be playing. He is still a young player and this could help keep him fresh.

“It’s only one game and he’ll be back quickly and keep progressing. He is still learning his trade and he’s a joy to work with because he is very receptive to the things you tell him in training.”