The 32-year-old is keen to resurrect a career that has floundered since he left Scotland 18 months or so ago and has contacted his old club to ask for a trial.

That’s a wish that will be granted and it is now down to the player to make the journey to Dundee.

“There is nothing concrete, but he has been in touch and, as it is something that would not cost us anything, I would be willing to have a look at him,” said Jocky.

“I have to say, although I’ve heard some good things about him, he is not a player I know and I did not see him during his spell here. I’d want a good look before I would be willing to take things any further.”

Palenik’s lack of competitive football since quitting Dens is also a concern. Records show he’s played just 11 competitive games for lower league teams in Cyprus and Slovakia, and he has had knee trouble.

However, his form while playing under Alex Rae, means his old team are more than happy to give him a chance to show he can still perform to the level required.

A fit Palenik would have been handy for tomorrow’s friendly derby at Dundee United because right now Jocky is short on central defenders.

In-form Gary MacKenzie has joined long-term absentee David Cowan on the injured list after being ruled out by the flu that forced him off early in Saturday’s win over Airdrie.

It’s hoped MacKenzie will have recovered in time for the top-of-the-table clash with Queen of the South on Saturday and tomorrow his place is likely to be taken by Kyle Benedictus.

That will allow Eddie Malone to move back out to left-back and today Jocky was full of praise for the way his rearguard coped with MacKenzie’s early departure.

“I thought Eddie Malone and Jim Lauchlan did very well — Eddie looked comfortable and Lauchy showed all his experience in what could have been a difficult situation.”

Meanwhile, goalkeeper Tony Bullock will be out for a month or so after having knee surgery and missing the weekend win.