Dundee United keeper Rado Cierzniak is looking to prove he learned a lot when he faces an “old master” on Saturday.
The Tangerines play high-flying St Johnstone in the Tayside derby with veteran Steve Banks set to feature in goal for Saints.
The 41-year-old was snapped up by Perth boss Tommy Wright in the summer after he was released from his player/coach role by United.
With first-choice St Johnstone stopper Alan Mannus currently sidelined with a shoulder injury, Banks has been handed the goalie’s jersey and took his place between the sticks last weekend against Ross County, keeping a clean sheet.
Cierzniak admits he owes Banks a big debt of gratitude. However, after United were denied their first victory of the season at Easter Road last Saturday thanks to a Scott Robertson equaliser, he is determined to help his side secure all three points against St Johnstone.
The Polish keeper said: “We were really disappointed to drop the two points but we were very close to winning the game so we can be happy with that. I felt we played better and we created a lot of chances to score.
“That was a big positive and I am optimistic for the future.
“We have another tough game to look forward to on Saturday against St Johnstone. However, it doesn’t matter who we play in the SPFL, they are all difficult games and we have to be ready for that.
“St Johnstone are doing really well at the moment but we always have to look to win games at this club. I am very happy that Steve Banks will be in the other goal. I have a huge amount of respect for him.
“I sent him a text last week saying that I was delighted for him starting against Ross County. He is a 41-year-old guy but he is very professional and takes good care of himself.
“It is an inspiration to me when I see lads of Steve’s age still playing at the top level. That is my dream for the future to play as long as I can. At the moment though, all I am concentrating on is doing well this season.
“Steve taught me a lot here and I am very happy that we will be on the pitch together. But hopefully all three points will be staying in Dundee on Saturday.”
United boss Jackie McNamara made nine summer signings and Cierzniak admitted he has been really impressed by one in particular, centre-half Calum Butcher.
He added: “I like Calum who is a good, young player. He is confident and I feel very good with him playing in front of me.
“I think he will just get better and better the more games he plays. I didn’t have a lot to deal with against Hibs and that was because of Calum and the rest of the defenders.”