Indeed, Jim Gannon’s men are the only team to inflict defeat on the Tangerines — 1-0 at Tannadice back in September — and, like United, have only suffered one reverse, to Hibs, in 11 league fixtures.

Goalless draws against both halfs of the Old Firm only confirm that Gannon has added steel to the Steelmen, and their performances to date have impressed the United boss.

“Jim Gannon did a good job at Stockport County, but then the club hit financial problems,” said Craig.

“So it’s no surprise to me Motherwell have done well.

“They are a capable side and have a lot of young boys full of enthusiasm and energy.

“I saw their game against Aberdeen and, while they could have lost, equally they could quite easily have won it, so we know it will be tough on Saturday.”

Meanwhile, with yesterday’s closed-door game against Airdrie called off and no other bounce games on the horizon, the United gaffer has confirmed he may put Keith Watson and Kevin Smith out on loan.

“They both need game time, so we may think about getting them clubs for a month or so,” explained Craig.

“Even if they go somewhere and come off the bench for 30 minutes or so, that’s better than I’ll be able to give them at the moment.”

The manager confirmed it’s unlikely on-loan pair Greg Cameron and Johnny Russell will play for Raith Rovers in the Fifers’ Scottish Cup tie against Peterhead this week.

But, while Jocky is hoping his men take confidence and encouragement from the experience, he feels the time is now right to move on.

He said, “The final is over and done with. It’s history now and we can’t afford to dwell on it.

“We have to get on with the job in hand and that means preparing properly for next Tuesday’s game at Ross County.”

Eric Paton and Sean Higgins had scans on their injured knees today.

“It’s just precautionary and we should get the results tomorrow,” said Jocky.

Meanwhile, there is no further word on when, or if, former Dark Blue Milan Palenik is returning to the club. The Czech centre-half is keen to kick-start a career which has seen him play only a handful of games in lower league football in Slovakia and Cyprus since he left Scotland 18 months ago.

And, with a visit to Dundee planned, the 32-year-old had asked the Dark Blues for a trial. That’s something the club were prepared to do, but, as yet, there is still no sign of Palenik.

“Milan said he was coming over to Dundee for a visit and asked if we would have a look at him,” said Jocky.

“We said we’d be willing to do that, but I don’t know him and I would have to get a good look at him in training before I decided whether or not to take things further. But nothing has happened yet.”

“My recovery from the latest problem, my knee, is ahead of schedule,” said Andy. “Getting fully fit again is hard work, but it will be worth it in the end.

“I’m receiving a lot of encouragement from manager Derek McInnes and his assistant Tony Docherty, and club physio Nick Summersgill has been a big help. I’ve had a hard time of it, but I’m getting fitter week by week and hope it won’t be long before I’m back playing again.”

Meanwhile, as Saturday’s game against Hamilton at McDiarmid Park looms, Saints are hopeful of having Kenny Deuchar available.

Graham Gartland has a niggling shoulder problem, but Steven Anderson is back training.