However, for another of the trialists, it was a case of packing his bags and heading back to Britain.

Former Carlisle midfielder Neale McDermott, son of Liverpool legend Terry, worked with the squad last week.

But the 23-year-old has picked up an injury, forcing him to return home this morning. Alex explained, “Unfortunately, Neale has an abductor problem and has gone home to get it sorted out.

“We may have him back to have another look when we get back to Dens, but that will depend on who we bring into the squad. We’ll just monitor the situation at the moment.”

Meanwhile, Alex confirmed a third trialist with the party is former St Johnstone central defender Sean Webb. The 25-year-old Northern Ireland international, who also had spells at Ross County, had been plying his trade with Accrington Stanley last season.

Darren Young has shaken off a calf problem, but new signing Craig McKeown was forced to sit out today’s sessions.

“Craig has suffered a wee setback as he’s picked up a groin injury,” added Alex.

The manager dismissed reports a Bulgarian midfield man was due to join up with the pool.

United would like to make the switch permanent, but, as with other targets, the manager was at pains not to build up supporters’ expectations until he had something concrete to deliver.

He said, “All I can tell fans at the moment is we are working very, very hard to get deals done.

“The problem is, we’ve looked at so many players it would be foolish to say anything at this stage, because, with the vast majority, nothing will happen.”

Sunderland striker Roy O’Donovan still remains on the manager’s radar, although Craig described that possible switch as “a bit more complicated”.

Meanwhile, the players are due to report back on Friday, when they will undergo fitness testing at Dundee University.

They’ll return again on Saturday for a ‘loosener’ and the hard work begins in earnest next Monday.

It has been confirmed that United’s first home league game of the season against champions Celtic has been moved to Sunday, August 17, due to live coverage by Setanta (KO 2 pm).

The satellite broadcaster will also screen the Tangerines’ league opener at Hamilton on Monday, August 11.

Meanwhile, United remind supporters that Sunday is the final cut-off date for renewing same season ticket seats.

Sales still remain slightly ahead of last year at the same time.

Taking into account outstanding orders and finance applications, the club have sold almost 4500 already with over a month to go to the start of the new campaign.

However, the Tangerines could be looking at record season ticket sales as there remains a considerable number of season ticket holders from last season still to renew.

Saints’ only injury concern is midfield man Kevin Moon, who has been troubled by a groin injury.