Dundee’s James McPake set to go under the knife after horror derby injury

Dundee have revealed that defender James McPake will undergo surgery on Tuesday after suffering a serious knee injury during Saturday’s derby win at Dens.

The big centre-half was hurt early in the first-half making a challenge on Dundee United’s John Rankin.

McPake received lengthy treatment on the pitch before being stretchered off and rushed to hospital.

The 31-year-old has now had a scan, with Dundee saying in a statement: “During the Dundee derby at the weekend, James McPake was forced to leave the pitch in the first-half due to injury.

“James went straight to hospital and following a scan today the club can confirm that he has suffered a fractured kneecap and will undergo surgery tomorrow.

“Following the surgery we will have a clearer picture of timescales for rehab.

“We would like to acknowledge the professionalism from both sets of players during the derby match on Saturday who immediately helped when it was clear James was in significant pain.

“James is a vital part of Dundee Football Club and we wish him a speedy recovery.”

For more on this story, see Tuesday’s Courier.