“Not now, not in Malta, not ever,” was the manager’s reaction when the latest talk of the 32-year-old joining up at Dens reached his ears.

Reporting today when the players arrived for the start of their pre-season work was one, as yet, un-named trialist, while another mystery man will meet up with the squad in England tomorrow and head out to the Mediterranean.

First thing this morning, the squad were put through a series of tests at Dens before heading out for the first session of the build-up this afternoon.

There will be more hard work in the morning before a bus journey to Manchester and an early-morning flight from Manchester on Wednesday.

Not taking part in full training for the first few days will be new signing Craig McKeown.

The former Clyde defender had a groin operation at the end of the season and is not quite back to 100% fitness yet.

“Craig is training, but not full out. All the players had a programme to follow when they were on holiday and, because of his op., he is just that wee bit behind,” explained Alex.