While it has been the scoring exploits of Mikael Antoine-Curier and Colin McMenamin that have captured the headlines at Dens since their arrival in January, it was a flurry of early-season goals from Davidson that pushed the team into the First Division promotion race.

Boss Alex Rae has repeatedly praised Davidson for his work-rate and his attitude has earned him a deal until May next year.

Meanwhile, Scott Robertson may not be handed a starting place when the Dark Blues face their latest must-win fixture, at Queen of the South on Saturday.

Robertson’s scoring return as a sub against Stirling Albion at the weekend, after over a month out with hamstring trouble, was seen as a clear indication he’d be ready for 90 minutes at Palmerston.

The manager, though, does not see things that way and, today, admitted he has serious doubts over even his most energetic performer’s ability to last a full game so soon after a big injury.

“Scott did well when he came on against Stirling and he took his goal very well, but he’d only had one day back in full training since he got injured,” said Alex.

“Putting him on from the start on Saturday would be asking a lot, though we’ll see how he does in training over the next few days before we make a final decision.

“I’m not worried about his injury because I’m sure it’s healed, but I know from my own experience that being asked to play 90 minutes when you are nothing like ready is not fair on players.”

Alex knows that news will disappoint Robertson, because he’ll want to start, and believes his attitude is typical of the entire squad.

Well aware that Saturday could see promotion hopes finally dashed, he is determined to see the players’ efforts this term highlighted.

“I really do have nothing but admiration for the boys and what they’ve given me. Whatever happens, I know they have given their all and, in the end, I can’t ask for any more than that.”

And, while it is only a small gesture by his men, their gaffer believes it is another indication that the attitude in the camp is spot on.

“It’s just a wee thing, but it’s a nice touch and a good way to mark the fact they reached the CIS Cup Final — it would have been better if this was marking us winning it, but it’s still a nice gesture,” said Craig.

“The fact the boys have all got bricks shows the togetherness we have here and that is something that should never be under-estimated at a football club.

“All the boys get on very well. They spend a lot of time together off the park as well as on it and that is something, as a manager, that is good to know.

“If you are working with a group of boys who are mates, it is easier in training and you know that in games they are more likely to give that bit extra because it is their mates they are out there with.”

Today, the reserves were in action against Aberdeen for the second week running, with the away fixture being played at Brechin’s Glebe Park.

And, while foot-injury victim Darren Dods will be given every chance to prove his fitness for Sunday’s clash with former club Hibs, his condition had a bearing on the team selection.

“I want to give both Mihael Kovacevic and Danny Grainger games, but I can’t take the risk they’d get injured.

“I’ve still to see if Dodsy can make it and, if he doesn’t, who should play, but, right now, the one who isn’t lining up is more likely to start on Sunday.”

Meanwhile, reserve goalkeeper Euan McLean will be released in the summer if he can find another club, and it is odds on the Scotland Under-21 squad member will be heading to St Johnstone.

McLean has made a handful of first-team appearances this term, but has largely played second fiddle to Poles Grzegorz Szamotulski and Lukasz Zaluska.

As well as missing Sunday’s Scottish Cup semi against Rangers at Hampden, he’ll miss Saints’ last two league games away to Stirling and at home to Livingston.

There is, however, better news of Jody Morris. He’s been out injured recently, but has started running with physio Nick Summersgill and the Perth side are trusting he’ll be fit for the weekend.

Kevin James and Martin Hardie came through unscathed against Morton last Saturday and have showed no reaction to their recent injury woes. They will be considered for the Rangers game.

Today, Saints trained at St Andrews and tomorrow they face Livingston at home in a reserve match. Trialist Nick McKoy will line up in this one.