Dundee

Clive Lindsay
BBC Sport Scotland

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Week after week, the burden of pressure seems to be passed from manager to manager in the cut throat Scottish Premiership.

This week, you could have your choice of three, with Aberdeen's form having fallen off a cliff since their opening 13-game winning streak, and 16 unbeaten, under Jimmy Thelin - they are now without a win in nine, losing their past four, as they visit Motherwell.

Fellow newcomer Simo Valakari has watched his St Johnstone side drop to the bottom of the table after seven games of their own without a win.

Meanwhile, Sunday's hosts, Dundee, looked to have turned their corner with last Sunday's 2-1 win away to St Mirren only to be brought back down to earth with their fourth defeat in five outings.

That it came in a home Dundee derby after which United moved up to third place was all the more painful for some of the Dark Blues' support to stomach and manager Tony Docherty has been facing a fair amount of fan flak over his tactics.

From being top-six contenders, Dundee are now five points behind Motherwell, only two above Hearts in the relegation play-off place and a defeat in Perth would leave only four points between themselves and Saints.

The result against hosts who can little afford to allow another potential relegation candidate increase that gap could decide which end of the table Dundee will be battling for the rest of the season.

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• Both sides have scored in each of their last five league meetings between St Johnstone (seven goals) and Dundee (eight). Before this, only one of the two sides' previous seven such clashes had seen both teams find the net.

• After their 2-1 win in March 2024, Dundee could earn back-to-back top-flight away victories over St Johnstone for the first time since April 2002 (three in a row).

• St Johnstone are without a win in seven league games (D2 L5) since beating Kilmarnock 1-0 in November.

• After beating St Mirren 2-1 last month, Dundee could enjoy back-to-back away wins in the Scottish Premiership for the first time since December 2017/January 2018 – one of which was at St. Johnstone (2-0).

• Only Hibernian (16) have dropped more points from winning positions in the Scottish Premiership this season than both St Johnstone (15) and Dundee (13).

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Dundee manager Tony Docherty aims to sign defensive reinforcements this month after having to throw players in at the deep end in Thursday's derby defeat.

With Jordan McGhee and Billy Koumetio joining Antonio Portales and long-term absentee Joe Shaughnessy on the sidelines in the festive period, Docherty is short of centre-backs.

Clark Robertson was rushed back from injury to face Dundee United along with Luke Graham, who was recalled from a season-long loan spell at Falkirk, and Ryan Astley in a back three.

Docherty, whose side travel to face St Johnstone on Sunday, said: "Clark Robertson trained for one day, so in normal circumstances he wouldn't have played in that match, but because of the boy he is, and because of the situation we're in, I had to play him.

"I think you may have seen that was a contributing factor in the last goal. He's looking over at the bench and he's struggling at that stage of the game.

"Big Luke, he's 20 years old, he's done fantastically out on loan, but it's that area of the pitch, with experienced defenders, it's cost us this season, absolutely, to have the amount of injuries that we've got.

"When the dust settles, you need to give the players credit, particularly Clark, for coming through that, but certainly we're suffering from the amount of injuries we've picked up, and the position in the team that the injuries fall."

Docherty confirmed Koumetio would be out for a "length" of time following a scan on an ankle injury and added of his missing defenders: "Obviously they're the big players for me, so we'll look at that as a group and see what we can do to try and make things right.

"But it doesn't take away from the fact we should win that game, we should absolutely win that game, and the overriding feeling for myself is one of real frustration and a bit of anger."

We asked for your views on Dundee's 2-1 derby defeat at home to Dundee United.

Here's what some of you said:

Ian: Embarrassing manager comments. Yes, we played well first half but without any cutting edge. Fortuitous penalty and bad luck with the equaliser but never threatened United's goal in the second half. Lack of early enough substitutes, it wasn't working, change it earlier as Jim Goodwin did. Over the 90 minutes we didn't deserve even a draw.

Danny: This was a game we should never have lost. Once again the manager has failed to react to what is happening on the pitch. His lack of game management and poor tactical awareness has cost us.

Mark: Shambles. Two defensive mistakes cost us yet again. Tony Docherty is to blame. Didn't make a sub until the 90th minute.

Dudley: Yet another manager who has out thought/coached Docherty, losing late goals is his speciality. We're obliviously clueless at the back, we're still not learning. Sorry Tony, but you're losing the Dundee support. Your shocking summer transfer window will be our downfall. Still, putting on very late subs and sadly you're taking us down.

Brian: Really should have had the game won in the first half, totally controlled it. Second half we fell away a bit and didn't deserve to lose. Some refereeing advantage decisions went against us when breaking away. Totally disappointed because we put up a good game.

Steven: Tough to take, once again Docherty's decisions probably cost the points. No subs when clearly required, befuddled to say the least.

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• Samuel Dalby has scored 10 goals in the Premiership this season (1 in this game), more than any other player.

• Dundee have lost after scoring the opening goal in the Premiership for the first time since 26 October 2024 against St Johnstone (3 games without defeat).

• Dundee United have won their last 3 games in the Premiership, their last joint longest winning streak was from 9 April 2023 to 22 April 2023.

• Dundee have lost 13 points from winning positions in the Premiership this season, only St Johnstone (15) and Hibernian (16) have lost more.

• Dundee United have won 11 points from losing positions in the Premiership this season, only Kilmarnock (12) have recovered more.

• Dundee United have scored in 17 of their 20 games, no team has done so more often in the Premiership this season.

Scottish Premiership top scorer Sam Dalby's dramatic late goal earned Dundee United a derby win at Dens Park and moved Jim Goodwin's promoted side up to third place.

Dundee fans, were you at Dens to see your side's loss, or were you following along from home? Either way, we want your thoughts.

Have your say on the game., external

George O'Neill
BBC Sport Scotland

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Only Ross County and St Johnstone have conceded more Premiership goals than Dundee, and it was the nature of the concessions against their city rivals that will frustrate Tony Docherty.

His team had chances to win this one, and when Simon Murray sent Jack Walton the wrong way from the penalty spot, they were the side in control.

However, Seb Palmer-Houlden failed to deal with Ross Graham's long throw, and his attempted clearing header turned into an assist for Vicko Sevelj's equaliser.

United's passing and movement was excellent for the winning goal, but from Dundee's perspective, the defending was poor.

There was no discernible defensive structure when the came to Will Ferry, Kevin Holt got in behind all too easily, and goal-scorer Sam Dalby wasn't properly picked up by anyone in dark blue.

St Johnstone are next up for Docherty's side, before back-to-back matches against Rangers and Celtic at Dens.

They need to plugs holes at the back if they are to avoid being dragged into the battle at the bottom.

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Dundee manager Tony Docherty: "Frustration and anger. We've found a way to lose that game. We should never lose that game. I thought we were really dominant in the first half against the shape we expected them to play - we were unfortunate to go in at nothing-each.

"We got the penalty and that should be it, that should be enough. We don't manage that properly. From the long throw, we get first contact and then we switch off second phase. That changes the momentum of the game.

"To lose it at the death is really tough, really hard to take. We found a way to lose that game, and that really angers me and frustrates me. The second goal, we need to take responsibility.

"You lose 2-1 because you make mistakes. It's our negligence that allows them to score. That's where the frustration comes. There's naivety there. It has to register that we need to stop giving our opponents chances to get back into games."

Clive Lindsay
BBC Sport Scotland

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With Luke McCowan having been lost to Celtic in the summer, Lyall Cameron has shouldered much of the responsibility of driving Dundee's midfield - and he continues to impress.

Indeed, although his four league goals are two short of his former team-mate, he has as many assists - also four.

Although injured captain Joe Shaughnessy and fellow key defenders Antonio Portales and Jordan McGhee are also out of contract, you imagine the 22-year-old will be a priority for manager Tony Docherty.

Other contracts expiring: Harry Sharp, goalkeeper; Adam Legzdins, goalkeeper; Sean Kelly, defender (January); Mohammed Sylla, defender; Finlay Robertson, midfielder; Josh Mulligan, midfielder; Charlie Reilly, forward; Scott Fraser, midfielder; Scott Tiffoney, midfielder; Curtis Main, forward.

Read more: Premiership summer free agents facing uncertain January

Kheredine Idessane
BBC Sport Scotland Senior Reporter

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Simon Murray says Dundee "really owe" their fans a long-awaited win over city rivals United in what he calls "one of the best fixtures you can play in".

The second Dundee derby of the season rounds off the first top-flight fixture list of 2025 at Dens Park, with the hosts hunting victory over their near neighbours for the first time in over seven years.

Having nudged his goal tally into double figures for the season with a brace at St Mirren last time out, Murray is keen to maximise momentum in the meeting he looks forward to above all others.

"It's massive," he said. "We really owe the home support a result and there's no one better to do it against than United so I'm looking forward to it. As a Dundee player and Dundee lad, it's one of the best fixtures you can play in.

"It'll be a great occasion but we've just got to treat it like any other Premiership game, do our normal routine and just look forward to the match."

Dundee's recent record in the fixture isn't good, having failed to win any of the seven encounters since a 2-1 victory in August 2017.

Currently eighth, if the Dee are to emulate last season's top-six finish, they can't afford to let the five-point gap to Motherwell in sixth grow much wider. The fact they are nine points adrift of United in fourth may concentrate minds yet further.

"I think we need to bring that consistency; as a club to look to go into the top six but as a team, we need to get more consistent performances and really build on that going forward to really put ourselves in a good position," Murray added.

Dundee United defender Kevin Holt, 31, expects to be targeted by Dundee fans when the sides meet in Thursday evening's city derby, having previously played for the Dens Park club. (Record), external

Read Thursday's Scottish gossip

Ethan Hampton
Fan writer

After a boxing day disaster against Ross County I was fearing the worst.

It wasn't just a loss—it was a reminder of the vulnerabilities threatening to derail our season. On paper, it was the most winnable fixture in a daunting stretch, yet the 3-0 hiding lacked even a semblance of effort or pride. It was one of the worst performances I've witnessed from a Dundee side.

The gauntlet was thrown down: a reaction was demanded. With January fixtures against Celtic (twice!) and Rangers looming, it was essential to secure points elsewhere and keep pace with our rivals for a top-six finish.

By halftime in Paisley, we were level, but Motherwell's lead against Rangers alongside the prospect of losing to St Mirren threatened to widen the gap between us and the top six to 11 points—a potentially fatal blow to our aspirations.

St Mirren were on a three-game winning streak, having just beaten Rangers on Boxing Day, and had only succumbed to defeat at home on two occasions this season. Billy Koumetio and Jordan McGhee were forced off due to injury after 20 minutes leaving us with a makeshift backline with just one natural centre half in the back three.

Our top six credentials were on display as we narrowed the gap to five points, the team dug deep and secured a massive win on the back of our losing streak. Ryan Astley in particular, had his best game in a dark blue jersey.

While the win at the SMiSA stadium atones for Boxing Day's disaster, a triumph over Dundee United could make amends for all of the hiccups we have suffered this season. The battle horns are sounding at Dens Park ahead of a highly anticipated Dundee derby, these are the best games of the season and have the power to define our campaign.

The stadium is sold out and Sky Sports will be rubbing their hands together as they've got the rights to cover what is arguably Scotland's most entertaining fixture.

The year 2024 will be remembered fondly, we finished in the top six, received approval for our next state of the art training facility and we capped the year off with a win.

While this season has carried much frustration, the prospect of winning the derby could both mathematically and symbolically be a decisive turning point in our fortunes.

The Dundee rivals meet in their first New Year derby since 2016 both on a high after weekend victories that lifted them closer to sides immediately above them in the table.

United will take the short stroll up Tannadice Street buoyed by a stoppage-time winner over Aberdeen that means there is only a three-point gap between themselves and Saturday's faltering third-top visitors.

The Dark Blues, meanwhile, ended a three-game run without a victory by beating St Mirren 2-1 to narrow the gap between themselves and their hosts, as well as sixth-placed Motherwell, to five points.

Following that up with a derby win is therefore vital for Tony Docherty's side if they are to retain hopes of a top-six finish instead of looking behind them to a relegation battle.

Nine points ahead and only a few short months after their return to the top flight, Jim Goodwin's United instead have Dons and European qualification in their sights after a run of one defeat in nine outings.

With both clubs yo-yoing in recent years between the top flight and the Championship, it means Dundee are seeking their first win over United at Dens Park since 2017, while the Tangerines are without a win there since 2014.

The latest three derbies, including August's 2-2 draw at Tannadice, have all finishing level, so it all points to another tight affair in front of a packed stadium out to witness some festive derby fireworks.

Read all the Premiership picks

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Tony Docherty is "proud" of his Dundee squad for the mental resilience they've shown despite a difficult period with injury.

After Billy Koumetio and Jordan McGhee were forced off after 20 minutes against St Mirren, Dundee are now without seven first team players, five of which are in central defence.

In spite of the absences, Docherty's side picked up a 2-1 win and a crucial three points against St Mirren.

"It's quite unprecedented in the squad that we've got to have the amount of injuries that we've picked up," the manager said.

"What I would say about that is in times of adversity, it highlights the character, the spirit and the mentality of the squad and I don't think you'll see a better example of that than our most recent game against St Mirren.

"I was proud of the players for that spirit that we showed to come through that and I'll be looking for that going into the derby and games after that.

"We're seeing now when the time comes for players to step up, they do it and I'm looking for them to do it again."

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Dundee manager Tony Docherty has been speaking to the media as his side prepare to face Dundee United on Thursday.

Here are the main points:

• The club is still waiting results of scans for centre-backs Billy Koumetio and Jordan McGhee who were subbed off in the victory over St Mirren.

• Docherty says the injuries Dundee have picked up are "quite unprecedented" but has been impressed with the response of players - "in times of adversity it highlights the character and spirit of the squad".

• In terms of other absences, the manager confirms Finlay Robertson is back training, but Antonio Portales is still sidelined while loanee Sean Kelly is available up until the United game.

• Dundee are still in talks over Oluwaseun Adewumi and although Docherty admits no paperwork has been signed, he stresses "we've got assurances he'll be with us".

• Docherty adds they're still waiting for Cesar Garza's clearance but all the paperwork is completed and he's been training with the squad - "fingers crossed he'll be available".

• Looking ahead to the January window, the Dundee boss says they'll be focusing in particular at targets to ease their injury situation.

• On the Dundee derby, Docherty says there's a "huge buzz" about the club and the city - "I live here and I feel the pulse of it".

• But the manager expects a "really tough game" against a United side who have been doing well this campaign - "it'll be an exciting game".

• When asked about whether he has hoped to change that Dundee haven't won a derby at Dens Park since 2017, Docherty admits he's not thinking about it and is only focused on what he can control and that's the performance on Thursday.

Seun Adewumi's loan deal from Burnley ends on 12 January, but Dundee are hoping to extend the 19-year-old midfielder's stay until the summer, while defender Sean Kelly's short-term deal ends on 2 January after the city derby but could also be extended. (The Courier), external

Read Tuesday's Scottish Gossip in full.

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• The last three derbies between Dundee and Dundee United in the Scottish Premiership have all been drawn, with the last two ending 2-2 (April 2022, August 2024).

• Dundee United are winless in four Scottish Premiership away games at Dundee (D1 L3) since a 4-1 victory in September 2014 under Jackie McNamara.

• This is the first time that Dundee and Dundee United are facing one another in their first Scottish Premiership game of a calendar year since 2016, when the Dee won 2-1.

• Dundee United won their first January Scottish Premiership game of 2023 (1-0 v St Johnstone), but haven't done so twice in a row in the top-flight since 2001/2002.

• Dundee United boss Jim Goodwin has drawn three of his five games as a manager against Dundee in the Scottish Premiership (W1 L1 – all three draws being 2-2), including both away from home with a different side (St Mirren in July 2021, Aberdeen in April 2022).

Watch Sportscene analysis of Dundee's 2-1 win against St Mirren in the Scottish Premiership.

(Available to UK users only).

With the January transfer window fast approaching, where does your club need to strengthen?

Who do you want brought in and who - if anyone - is it time to ship out?

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We asked for your views on Dundee's 2-1 win against St Mirren.

Here's what some of you said:

Anon: From being atrocious against Ross County and getting heavily criticised, rightly deserved, Tony Docherty has masterminded an amazing result and performance against all the odds. Hopefully this will continue into our next game, please.

Ali: The second season for a promoted team is often harder than the first season. It's proving to be the case for Dundee, losing one of the best players to a big team doesn't help. Despite losing both centre halves the boys did well and were the better team. Simon Murray took both goals well. Deserved and much needed win. Only down side is the size of the injury list.

Ronnie: Excellent battling performance which largely put the Ross County shambles to bed. Injuries a big worry for the next month or so, however, we can take plenty of confidence from this win going into the derby; three points there for the taking at a sold-out Dens and burst their wee bubble down the road in the process.

Rod: We do have some resilience every time we are down to get results but please get the defence sorted. I'm glad Luke Graham is being recalled because if our defence is going to be inconsistent then we could be giving him valuable experience for the future rather than loan players. Good to see Murray scoring.

Brian: What a performance, they fought for every ball and ran themselves into the ground. Definitely a better game plan. If we can keep this going for another few games, then we should be fine. Derby next, so come on, let's do this.

Jimmy: 100 per cent better than the Ross County game, at least the team showed effort, now carry that into the next game, we will have to break them down, they are just like County. Good luck guys.