Dundee boss John Brown has revealed veteran midfielder Gavin Rae is setting the pace at pre-season training.
The former Rangers and Scotland man was recruited by Brown to set an example, and he’s already living up to the billing.
Brown said: “Gavin is up at the front. It was his first day back yesterday and some of the younger boys were actually moaning that he’s going too fast!
“So that’s why he’s still playing at the level he’s playing at. Gavin is a great professional and someone who the younger lads at the club can look up to.
“It isn’t just Rae who has caught the eye of the manager though. Peter MacDonald is another great pro,” he pointed out.
“It took him until he was about 27 to realise about diet and rest. He looks after himself well. He had a few injuries, and whatever he has to do through the week is fine with me because I’ve told him I want him to play every game this season.
“All the boys’ fitness levels are good. Into next week we’ll be working mainly with the first team and four or five of the younger ones who are pushing to be in the squad. They’ve shown they’re coping well with first team training.”
Meanwhile, Dundee have announced that for the fourth consecutive year Kilmac Energy will remain the team’s principal sponsor.
Chief executive Scot Gardiner said: “We have a superb relationship with Richard (managing director Kilcullen) and his fellow directors at Kilmac and they have been a superb sponsor of the club. Personally I have to say that it has been a pleasure to work with them since I have been at Dens and I am looking forward to more of the same.
“They are a progressive and dynamic company who have been quick to support Dundee FC at all levels and through thick and thin. Everyone at Dundee FC appreciates their continued support and I trust that our fans do too.”
Kilcullen commented: “Our ongoing commitment to Dundee FC as shirt sponsor ensures the support of a local club at a time when finances are scarce within Scottish football. Kilmac is proud to be the shirt sponsor of Dundee FC and all of us at Kilmac are looking forward to the 2013/14 season and the year ahead for Dundee FC. ”