Dundee will have to adjust from facing one of the most physical teams in the Premiership to facing the most creative when Celtic visit Dens Park at the weekend.
Dark Blues boss Jim McIntyre knows that nothing less than their Sunday best will do if they are to get anything against the league leaders.
And another solid defensive performance would be a good starting point.
“Ikpeazu is a handful and so is Vanecek but we handled them really well on Saturday,” said McIntyre.
“And it wasn’t just the strikers. You had Berra, Souttar and Djoum. They have a lot of big boys in their side. I was really pleased with how we dealt with them for most of the game.
“The next game is as tough as they come and Celtic won’t be as direct as Hearts, that’s for sure.
“They like to play through the lines. Their movement is fluid and they play a completely different way to Hearts.
“We’ve got a lot of work to do to get the right result but on our day, we’re capable.”
Neil Lennon has preached continuity rather than change since taking over from Brendan Rodgers at Celtic Park.
McIntyre observed: “Why would you want to change what has been very successful?
“I’m sure Neil will make subtle changes because very manager does that but the bottom line is their squad is still the same and they’ve still got top players. We need a top performance to get anything out of the game.”
James Horsfield has been one of Dundee’s most consistent performers since the January break, with McIntyre praising his defensive and creative contributions.
“He’s done well,” said McIntyre. “He’s a decent defender and has got composure on the ball. He can pick a pass – short and long – which is important in that position.
“He gives us good supply into midfield, to the strikers and down the line. He’s been reared at Man City, so he’s cultured on the ball.
“We’ve been pleased with him so far.”
