Dundee United striker Kevin Smith has gone for a trial at League One side Notts County.
Tannadice boss Peter Houston has told promising youngster Smith who was on loan at Raith Rovers last season that with the amount of striking competition at United, his chances of playing in the first team are slim.
As well as new club captain Jon Daly, United also have David Goodwillie, Francisco Sandaza, Andis Shala, Danny Cadamarteri and Damian Casalinuovo on the books.
Now, Smith will try his luck at County who, by coincidence, will be on tour in Austria next week at the same time as United.
“Kevin is training at Notts County for the next week,” said Houston. “I spoke to County’s assistant manager Dave Kevan who I know and they are keen to have a look at the lad.
“I have told Kevin that with the amount of strikers we have, it might be worthwhile looking at other teams.
“The funny thing is, if County want him back for a second week they will be in Obertraun at the same time as us.
“So I have allowed him to go down there this week and if they ask me if they can take him to Austria with them on Saturday, then I will probably agree to that. But, after that, they need to make up their mind about him.
“I am not pushing Kevin out the door but I have just said to him it will be difficult for him to secure a first-team place.”
Meanwhile, Mihael Kovacevic has had surgery to fix the knee ligament injury he suffered while on holiday back home in Switzerland.
It was hoped that rest would cure the problem but his specialist decided to operate last week and Houston admitted the defender is unlikely to be seen again in a United strip until next year at the earliest.
And Johnny Russell, who injured his ankle on the first day of pre-season training during a game of head tennis, is facing six weeks on the sidelines.
Houston confirmed the young striker has no broken bones in the joint but he has suffered extensive ligament damage.
“It is a big blow for the laddie as he will miss pre-season,” he added.