Dundee veteran Rab Douglas insists he has never felt fitter as the Dark Blues gear up for life in the SPL.
The Dens Park side were preparing to play in the First Division this season until they were invited into the top flight on Monday to replace fallen Glasgow giants Rangers.
And that unexpected bonus is one that 40-year-old Douglas is determined to seize with both of his big mitts.
He said: ”It is great that we are back in the SPL. Obviously, we would have liked to have gone up on merit but maybe with me being a wee bit older it is just great to get another chance.
”We have been in Division One for seven seasons yet we are still averaging crowds of well over 4000 for our home games, which is nothing short of amazing and is a credit to our supporters.
”They did their bit to save the club and hopefully they will continue to back us in big numbers.
”It is now a fresh start and one I am looking forward to. You want to play in the best league against the best teams so you need to seize that chance if given it.
”I feel fit and healthy, touch wood, and I managed to play in every game last year apart from the one I was sent off in, which was never a red card.
”I’m feeling really fit and I have probably done more running this summer in pre-season than I’ve done for several years. I play every game as if it is my last as you just never know.”
The Dundee fans were given an early taste of what it will be like being back in the big time at last Saturday’s derby friendly with United that attracted more than 10,000 supporters through the Dens Park turnstiles.
And Douglas believes the return of meaningful derbies this season can only be good for the city as a whole.
He said: ”Rangers and Celtic obviously have massive supports but I think the derby game on Saturday showed there is life outwith the Old Firm. It was great to see the stadium full and it will be the same when we go to play United at Tannadice.
”The players will give it their best shot. We need a few more bodies in but there is an SPL set-up in place here. We have received a massive bonus and we are all just looking forward to it.”
Former Celtic star Douglas is already expecting a warm reception from opposition fans in the SPL but he admits he wouldn’t have it any other way.
He said: ”I supported Motherwell so it will be good to go to Fir Park and get pelters and I will probably go to Celtic and get pelters but that’s what the game is about.
”You go to places like Raith Rovers and up to Ross County and you get great banter. If you don’t enjoy that part of the game, then what’s the point of playing?
”Maybe because I am a keeper and am more connected with the fans behind the goal, I find it more enjoyable.”
Meanwhile, Dundee boss Barry Smith is expected to have a look at a number of trialists in a closed door game against Montrose today.
Captain Stephen O’Donnell and midfielder Kevin McBride will both miss out through injury, while they are also likely to sit out Saturday’s fixture at Cove Rangers.
”We’re confident it is nothing serious with either of them so it’s taking longer than we expected to get them back,” Smith added.