| The big Czech has been enjoying the Dark Blues cup runs this term because so much more importance is attached to knockout competitions than he is used to back home.
He still accepts the league performance and promotion to the SPL is more important to the club financially, but sees no reason why the players should treat either competition differently.
“As players, we are greedy at Dundee. We want to win football matches and if they are in the league or cup it does not matter,” he said.
“If you ask me to choose between league or cup I say I want both.
“I am 30 now and for me it’s important to be winning — I would love to be in the SPL next season, but I would love a cup semi-final as well.”
Palenik believes that attitude is reflected right through the squad and he believes that, despite six of the players who took part in the win over St Johnstone last Saturday being unavailable, Dundee still have a great chance of making the last four.
“To have half our players out is not good. Because of that it will be harder, but we can play a good game and still win because we have good players coming into the team.”
Even the Doonhamers’ recent excellent record, that’s seen them lose just once since mid-December beating the Dens men twice in the process, does not daunt Palenik.
“They are a dangerous team and it will be a very hard game, but when you are playing and it is win, win, win, it becomes a pressure.
“This is a big game and they will be worried that this is the one they will lose because it has to happen sometime.”
The full list of Dundee absentees reads Colin McMenamin and Mickael Antoine-Curier cup-tied, Gary MacKenzie and Kevin McDonald suspended as well as injured pair Scott Robertson and Derek Lyle.
On loan midfielder from Hibs, Patrick Noubissie, will make his debut and boss Alex Rae, though, was quick to stress he is happy with the line up he’ll cobble together.
“There are a few out, but I have my team in my mind and when I look at it, I like what I see.
“Patrick will be involved and the other players are ones who, in the past, have shown they have the ability to go away to difficult places and get results,” he said.
Over 2000 Dundee fans will be making the trip and the manager believes they can be the 12th man.
“It’s a long way and a lot of money, so when you see how many will be there to get behind us, it is quite frightening.
“We know they’ll make a lot of noise and the aim is to give them plenty to shout about.”
The travelling fans have been urged to leave early because of roadworks on the M77 near Hamilton and parking problems in Dumfries which is also hosting a fair tomorrow. |
