Dens dynamo Nicky Riley has been tipped to wing his way to the top after a devastating display against Falkirk.
Riley’s Dundee team-mates have been keen to predict a bright future for him after he set up every one of the Dark Blues’ goals in their 4-2 win over the Bairns on Saturday.
However, the former Celtic man isn’t dreaming of a return to the big stage just yet. Asked if he was aware of the warm words from his colleagues, Riley, who left Parkhead in 2009 after four years with the Hoops, replied: ”Yes, and I am flattered to hear the boys say that. But I am not really thinking of that at all. I am just enjoying being here and enjoying the winning run we are on.
”I want to help Dundee carry on this run of form and see where it takes us,” added Riley, who has helped the Dens men move from bottom spot in the First Division to third-top in the space of a few weeks.
”From my point of view it was pleasing to have a hand in all four goals against Falkirk. But the most important thing was the team getting the right result.
”All the lads are chipping in with goals, which is very encouraging. Ryan Conroy has been on target recently, Jake Hyde is back on form, while Gavin Rae and Steven Milne have also been doing their bit.”
While Riley has been running riot at one end of the park, he insists he has not been neglecting his defensive duties either.
”It’s not just a case of going forward,” he said. ”I have to track back as well, which is what modern-day players have to do.
”Just look at the English Premiership even the best players have to go both ways and help out in defence.”
Dundee are aiming for a fifth straight win in Saturday’s clash at Hamilton after seeing off Raith Rovers, Morton, Stirling Albion and Falkirk.
Riley is hoping to avoid a repeat of their last meeting with Accies.
He said: ”We go into the Hamilton game with our tails up. When they came to Dens earlier in the season we played really well and had all the ball but just couldn’t score.
”They then went up the park and hit us with a sucker-punch, which was so frustrating. Hopefully, that won’t happen again and we can come back with the three points.”