And their bid to hang on to that spot and claim a UEFA Cup place has been strengthened by Wilkie’s decision to stay put.

Out of contract at the end of the season, the 28-year-old has been strongly linked with Rangers and it’s understood at least one English Championship club were also chasing him.

That hadn’t stopped United making him a lucrative offer to remain where he is and the Evening Telegraph understands it’s that eagerness to hang on to him that’s persuaded him to stay.

Although the first-team squad were off today, Wilkie was due to meet with boss Craig Levein to give him his final answer on the proposed new deal — and it will be “yes”.

With goalkeeper Lukasz Zaluska being lured away by Celtic at the end of the season, losing the captain would have been a major blow.

Equally, hanging on to the man who has rebuilt his career over the past two-and-a-bit years at United represents a major coup.

However, while he accepts few people other than those of a Dark Blue persuasion will fancy his side to topple the champions in their own back yard, Jocky is hoping his men can spring a surprise.

He said, “Nobody expects us to go there and get a result, but it is a cup game and anything can happen in the cup.

“We’ve not got many players who have played in the Premier League or even played at Parkhead, so this will be a great opportunity for them to go and enjoy the occasion and get a taste of what football at the top end of the SPL is all about.

“Hopefully, it will serve its purpose and make them hungry for more. I’m sure they are all looking forward to it.”

Meanwhile, Jocky confirmed Bob Davidson will be allowed to leave the club during the current transfer window if he can find a new club.

The 22-year-old former Rangers striker is out of contract in the summer.

“I’ve spoken to Bob and told him I won’t be renewing his contract and we won’t stand in his way if he can get something sorted out before the window closes,” said Jocky.

“But, if that doesn’t happen, he’ll still be here training with the first team and available to play if needed.”

There have been no inquiries for midfielder Eddie Mearns, who Jocky is prepared to let out on loan.

The manager indicated he has held initial talks with a few out-of-contract players he wants to keep.

“I’ve spoken to one or two briefly, but we’ve got a lot of important games coming up and it’s finding the right time when it doesn’t interfere with our preparation for a Saturday.”

However, Derek stated, “There have been no moves for any of my players and I don’t want anyone to leave.”

Long-term injury absentee Kevin James is set to return to training on Friday and he should be joined by Collin Samuel, Steven Milne, Peter MacDonald and Kevin Moon. This quartet have recently been out due to various knocks. However, Martin Hardie still remains sidelined and is unlikely to face Rangers in the Scottish Cup at McDiarmid on Tuesday.

Saints have sold in the region of 2500 tickets for the game. Briefs are still on sale to season ticket and voucher holders only. They can be purchased from McDiarmid Park between 9 am-5 pm today, Thursday, Friday, Monday and Tuesday.