Dundee boss Gary Bowyer has told midfielder Shaun Byrne “if you’ve got the shirt, it’s up to you to keep it” after his return to the starting XI.
Back in August, it looked like the 29-year-old’s time with the Dark Blues was coming to an end after being told by Bowyer he could find a new club.
And Byrne had to make do with a place on the bench after returning from a thigh injury, sometimes being left out of the matchday squad altogether.
However, an injury suffered by Joe Grayson early on against Raith Rovers saw Byrne called for by Bowyer.
And his return from the bench was met with a huge cheer from home fans.
‘Honest conversation’
He subsequently made his first start for the club since August 6 in last weekend’s 1-0 victory over Hamilton.
“He got injured in August and it took longer than we anticipated for him to come back,” his manager explained.
“We looked after him and Alex Jakubiak with their recoveries.
“And I had an honest conversation with Shaun (in August) because we had an abundance of people who could play central midfield.
“I said all along if he chose to stay then there would be no problem.
“And he got the head down until he got his chance last week.
“As we say with everybody, if you’ve got the shirt it’s up to you to keep it.
“I was delighted with his performance.”
‘Magnificent’
Byrne had offers to move on but chose to stay and fight for his place at Dundee.
And his hard work has paid off with another chance to impress Bowyer.
Difficult situations for Byrne haven’t only been restricted to football matters, however.
And Bowyer says the ability to deal with that while also making a positive impact on his return to the team speaks volumes for Byrne’s character.
“He’s showed what a top professional he is and with all he’s had to deal with off the pitch, it shows football is irrelevant really,” Bowyer added.
“But to contend with all that and put in the performances on the pitch he has is nothing short of magnificent.”
Meanwhile, Dundee have confirmed tickets for Saturday’s Scottish Cup clash with Airdrieonians will be £15.
Concessions are £5 while U/12s cost just £2 when bought with an adult ticket.
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