Paul Hartley Seeking Repeat Showing Of Opening Day

[JoeCovenant]

Dundee boss Paul Hartley is hoping his side can reproduce their opening-day form when Kilmarnock visit Dens.

The Dark Blues were in rampant mood on the first day of the season, winning 4-0 at Rugby Park.

And Hartley is looking for a repeat show against Gary Locke’s side.

“I think it was definitely one of the best performances we have had since we came here,†said Paul referring to that win in Ayrshire.

“Everything went well for us that day. We played really well and if we can put that performance on again, then, hopefully, we can get a positive result.â€

The manager has been given a boost by the return of James McPake to the heart of defence.

The former Northern Irish international will be handed the captain’s armband, in the continued absence of club captain Kevin Thomson (medial ligament), after coming through training this week unscathed.

McPake missed last weekend’s clash with Hamilton due to a facial injury suffered during last month’s 3-3 home draw with Ross County, in which he was forced off late on.

He will be partnered by German Thomas Konrad, who will continue at the back in place of Julen Etxabeguren.

The Spaniard was stretchered off at New Douglas Park at the weekend and is facing a few weeks on the sidelines with an ankle problem.

Paul confirmed Julen was sent for a scan today, the results of which will not be known until early next week.

“It has settled down and is better but either way he is a couple of weeks away,†said the gaffer.

“He caught his ankle ligaments. We did think it could be a lot worse the way he landed on it.â€

News was also positive on Paul McGowan and Kane Hemmings.

“Kane has trained all week,†said Paul.

“He will be back in contention. Gowser has also been training with us and Nicky Low has a week under his belt, too.â€

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