And he reckons a repeat in tonight’s friendly would represent a further boost to promotion hopes.

“We want to give a good account of ourselves like we did against Aberdeen and Rangers,” said the 32-year-old. “We were more than a match for Aberdeen and did well in the Rangers game, and these performances give us confidence.

“Our target is to be playing SPL football next season and I think we have a good chance. We’re in a good position, joint top of the league, and I think our form is coming good — a good show in this game can only help.”

While this is a friendly, Lauchlan is experienced enough to know it’s one both teams will be keen to win.

“The fact it’s a friendly makes no difference and, by kick-off, there will be a good atmosphere inside the ground and players and fans will be up for it.

“I do hope there is a good crowd because the money going to each club’s youth set-ups makes it a very worthwhile cause.”

Dundee will be without striker Leigh Griffiths, who has joined up with the Scotland U/21 squad for Saturday’s game against Azerbaijan, and Lauchlan sees that as good news for United.

“We’ll miss him because he has been scoring goals for fun, but I am delighted to see him get this recognition and it is definitely something he deserves.

“We have a good squad here at Dens, though, and we have players who can come in a do a good job.”

Lauchlan himself would love nothing better than to double his derby tally.

“I did score in a derby for United at Dens. I don’t score many goals and it was only from a yard out, but it’s one I remember.

“I have to say it will be nice to go back down there because I had a lot of good times at United. I helped keep them in the Premier League and also made it to a cup semi-final.”

Boss Jocky Scott has admitted the timing of the game is not now perfect, but is still looking forward to crossing swords with his old rivals again.

“I’ve a few players injured, a couple away on international duty and a big game on Saturday, so what was an excellent idea is maybe not as suitable as it was when we arranged the game,” he said.

“However, since I came back last year one thing I have missed has been games against United and our aim it to make them a regular fixture again next season.

“As a player, coach and manager at this club, I know how much they mean to fans of both and we want to do well.”

With Griffiths away, Pat Clarke and Colin McMenamin will spearhead the attack and there will also be places in the starting line up for Colin Cameron, Darren Young and Kyle Benedictus.