“I’ve spoken to Houstie (coach Peter Houston) about last night’s game at Forfar and he was happy with the way things went.

“Most of the guys who didn’t feature against Newcastle got a run out, so that was pleasing.

“Johnny Russell, who scored one of the goals, got a couple of sore kicks on the leg during the game, but, to his credit, he finished the game.”

Craig Conway and Joe Collins also scored for the Tangerines.

Saturday’s lunch-time friendly against Blackburn will be United’s last recognised first-team friendly before the start of the SPL season and that televised encounter with Hearts.

“However, there may be other ‘bounce’ games before the start of the season,” concluded the Tannadice gaffer.

United’s Co-Op Cup tie at Alloa goes ahead on Tuesday, August 25 (7.45).

Two players unlikely to feature in the starting XI. against the Greenock side are Pat Clarke and David Cowan.

“They both had 20 minutes the other night against Antwerp and came through OK,” said the manager.

“We’ll have to keep a check on them this week, though.

“Goalkeeper Rab Douglas will need to train tomorrow and Friday to have any chance of starting on Saturday.

“We really have to look at the big picture with Rab. If we push him in, we may risk him breaking down and being out for a further three or four weeks. We’ll see what happens over the next 48 hours.”

Jocky reported no concrete movement on the transfer front.

The Dens board and manager Scott will be at the Dundee Social Club this evening as Dee 4 Life host a question-and-answer session.

Dundee visit Forfar in the Co-op Cup on Tuesday, August 25 (7.45).

Graeme Smith is suffering a thigh knock and is “touch and go” for the Burnley game according to manager Derek McInnes. However, Steven Milne, hurt against Stenny, will, hopefully, join in training tomorrow.

St Johnstone’s Co-Op Cup tie clash at Arbroath, goes ahead on Wednesday, August 26 (7.45).