He does not see that as in issue this weekend, but believes the opposition’s recent record — five wins in a row in league and cup without losing a goal — means this clash has the potential to be every bit as challenging as the last two games against the Old Firm.

“In our league, we meet each other too often to allow things to carry over and the only thing both sides will be thinking about on Saturday is trying to win,” said Craig.

“And I have to say we know that, to do so, we will have to play well, because they have been flying. Billy Reid’s done a great job and found a system that has suited his players.

“That’s why they are getting results and with that comes respect, which is what they will get from us this weekend.”

Meanwhile, neither of the Tangerines’ major deadline-day signings will be on duty at New Douglas Park.

Paul Caddis played in the last round for Celtic against Dundee and is, therefore, cup-tied, while Australian midfielder James Wesolowski will not quite be fit enough.

The Leicester City midfielder broke an ankle in October and, although he is back in training, he will be left until Inverness Caley Thistle visit on Saturday week before being considered for a debut.

“I’ve told him to stay down in Leicester this week and train there. That way he can sort out a few things and then join us on Monday when we start preparing for the Inverness game,” said Craig.

Back in training this week have been defenders Lee Wilkie and Paul Dixon, both of whom dropped out of the squad for Saturday’s defeat at Rangers. The Co-Op Cup semi-final marathon against Celtic left both with minor knee problems and, with Darren Dods and Danny Grainger more than able deputies, it was decided not to risk them at Ibrox.

Fans should note Saturday’s cup-tie at Hamilton is not all ticket. Gate prices are £20 (adults), £10 (concessions) and £5 (under 16).

And, even though a waterlogged pitch at Dens meant plans for him to play again tonight when the Dark Blues were to face Brechin in a closed-door game have had to be scrapped, he is in line to face Livingston on Saturday.

Today, his manager confirmed the sound of Cameron’s voice bellowing across the training pitch in the last week or so has been a sure sign he isn’t far away.

“It would have been good to see how he did tonight, but I have already seen in training that he is looking like his old self,” said Jocky.

“I’ve also been saying recently that we lack players who get in about each other on the park and moan when things are not going as they should. He is definitely one who does that and I’ve been hearing a lot of it during training. That’s a sign he is confident about his fitness.”

A defender and a striker were also set to play tonight, and the game going off makes a decision on whether or not they should be awarded contracts more difficult. One will go away and come back for a friendly against the Scotland Under-21s next week, but that may not be possible for the other.

Midfielder Paul McHale should also be on duty in West Lothian. He missed training yesterday after hurting a hamstring against Clyde on Saturday, but his condition is not causing concern.

All three matches take place on a Sunday, with a 3.15 pm kick-off and the channel also plans to show the end-of-season play-offs.

Meanwhile, fellow-frontman Peter MacDonald is back in training following a couple of niggling injuries.

Although the transfer window has now closed, Saints are still looking to bring a left-back in on loan.

They’re again being linked with Rangers’ Steven Smith and admit making an inquiry about him.