Dundee’s Iain Davidson knew there was a lot at “steak” on Saturday at St Mirren which is why he played through the pain barrier with a boot filled with beef.
The midfielder followed in the footsteps of former Dark Blues striker Sean Higgins who famously made a trip to a local butcher with physio Karen Gibson in a bid to find an unorthodox cure for an injury problem.
And Davidson admits it worked a treat again as he helped Dundee to a hard-fought victory that keeps their slim SPL survival hopes alive.
The former Raith Rovers skipper said: “It sounds weird but it actually worked a treat. I went over my ankle down at Kilmarnock which was giving me a lot of pain into my foot.
“I was struggling to train but when it was suggested I put the steak inside my boot, I thought I might as well give it a go.
“Sean Higgins did something similar when he was here at Dens and it didn’t do him any harm. I’m glad to say I’m the same and I’ll do it again if it means being able to play and help the lads on the pitch.”
Saturday’s win at St Mirren was another boost for interim boss John Brown’s chances of being awarded the manager’s job on a permanent basis.
And Davidson echoed the views of team-mate Gary Harkins, who said in the immediate aftermath of the game in Paisley that he believes “Bomber” is the right man for the job.
Davidson said: “I think the gaffer has done a great job so far.
“It’s a results-driven business and his record here speaks for itself. If he’s wanting the job long-term, then he’s certainly doing himself no harm whatsoever.
“The players have taken to him and he’s getting the best out of us which has been clear in recent weeks. We’re enjoying working under him and long may that continue.
“It’s obviously up to the board what they decide to do for the future but I don’t think there would be any complaints if he gets it permanently.
“We’re just keeping going until it’s mathematically impossible to stay up and that’s what he’s instilled into us.”