And if they continue to do the simple things well, the former Clyde stopper sees no reason why they can’t be picking up a second win bonus in a row.

“When a new manager comes in everyone gets a lift and it has been like that with Jocky,” he said. “It has been a fresh start for everyone and Jocky has got us back to basics. It’s been working, so long may it continue.”

A morale-boosting win at Dunfermline last week saw McKeown and central defensive partner Kyle Benedictus singled out for praise and the 16-year-old’s form came as no surprise to Craig.

“Kyle did very well — he is still young, but he is a fantastic prospect. I’ve played a couple of games with him in the reserves, so I already knew he was good.

“He was excellent at Dunfermline and he is now in the team on merit, but we know we have to keep playing well because there are now basically five players available for two places in the centre of the defence.

“That’s good for the team and, with people coming back from injuries, it is the same in other areas as well and you just have to make sure it is your name on the team sheet.”

Since hitting the top of the First Division table a few weeks ago, Queen of the South’s form has dipped, with last Saturday seeing them losing heavily at home to Morton in a shock result.

Gordon Chisholm’s team, however, remain a side McKeown rates highly.

“Queen of the South never give you an easy game and, after that result, they will be looking to bounce right back. We are now on a good run, though, and we want it continuing.”

Abandoning the usual one-game-at-a-time philosophy, the manager believes tomorrow and the clash with St Johnstone in a fortnight will give an indication of where Dundee can be come the end of the season.

“Our next two games are at home against teams above us and if we want to be there or thereabouts come May, we have to be looking to win them,” said Jocky.

“They are at home and although we had almost 1000 fans at Dunfermline last week and the result was excellent, getting wins in front of your home support is what really gets the fans going.

“These will be hard games, but if the players show the attitude and application of my first two games, I believe they have a very good chance.”