| And boss Jocky Scott has told his players to enjoy the build-up and ensure they leave nothing in the locker during Sunday’s McDiarmid Park showdown.
So far this term, Jocky’s focus has not strayed one inch from his main mission, getting the Dark Blues back to the SPL, and that’s even been reflected in his team selection for cup-ties.
Now, though, he wants his men to make the most of the chance to get their hands on a knockout trophy.
“This week, we’ll concentrate on the final and it will be a nice change for the players to just be thinking in terms of a one-off game,” he said.
“The good thing about a final is that, even if you go behind, your thoughts are only on that game and not on missing out on three points and how that will affect the league position.”
For all he wants this to be an enjoyable experience, the build-up will be taken seriously and the aim is to bring back the first domestic trophy available this season.
“We want to win it and I want the players to give a good account of themselves. What I’ll be telling them is that, whatever the outcome, they have to make sure they come off the pitch knowing they could not have done any more.
“There are few worse feelings than getting to the end of a final and knowing you could have done more — and I don’t want them experiencing that.”
The first few days of preparations are likely to be spent clarifying who will be available, but, other than the return of Under-21 internationals Leigh Griffiths and Chris Casement, the squad will not be too different from the one that was on duty for the weekend draw with Queen of the South.
Certain to be dropping out is Paul McHale after the midfielder limped off on Saturday with a groin injury.
His place is likely to be taken by Brian Kerr — if he proves he has recovered from an ankle knock.
“We’re not sure yet how bad McHale is, but the initial fear on Saturday was that he could be out for a few weeks, which is a blow,” explained Jocky.
“He’s been doing a job for us and we’ve a few injuries in that area, so it is something we could have done without, but I am hopeful Kerr will come back in.
“He tried some training on Friday, but when it came to a game situation he was not able to take part. Another week should be enough for him to get back.”
Around 5000 of the 6000 tickets Dundee were allocated have now been snapped up and fans are being urged to get their briefs as early as possible. The ticket office at Dens is open during the week, but there will be no sales on Sunday.
Meanwhile, training with the youths just now is one Kyle Hendry, son of Scotland legend Colin, whose career started at Dens.
The midfielder was at Blackburn and earlier this season trained with Rangers, who recommended him to Dundee. |
