Graham Dorrans is a big-game player who will relish this biggest of games facing Dundee.
That is the opinion of Dark Blues manager James McPake, who is confident his vastly-experienced midfielder will stand out from the derby crowd.
Dorrans will definitely be someone who will be closely watched by Dundee United when the city pair clash at Dens on Friday.
His form for McPake’s men of late has been excellent and he was the creator of both goals in the 2-1 home win over Morton.
McPake, who counts the ex-Rangers, West Bromwich Albion and Scotland man among his close friends, believes that Dorrans is a perfect fit for what could be a tense and frantic affair.
The Dundee boss said: “Graham is happy to be back playing football and can’t wait to play on Friday night.
“That is because he is a big-game player and these are the games they live for.
“When he decided to come here, I’m sure this was the first game he looked for.
“Graham has played in so many big games. For example, he has scored at Old Trafford and played against Man City, Liverpool and Arsenal.
“He has been to huge stadiums and played against top players so will enjoy the game on Friday.
“I am sure he will thrive on it.
“He will think: ‘This is a real game here.’ That will get even more out of him.
“He also knows what is at stake and what it means to our supporters.”
They may be pals but it goes without saying that Dorrans is at Dens because of his obvious quality.
McPake said: “When we signed him I know part of it was down to him being my mate but I wouldn’t have brought him in the door unless I felt he could do a job for Dundee.
“I knew how hungry he was and we had spoken a lot about the need for him to get his career going again.
“I knew he was over his injury so when it became possible we knew the quality he would bring here.
“He is a standout performer in the Championship and he would be the same in the Premiership too,” added McPake.
“Graham has played over 150 games in the English Premier League and you don’t do that unless you are a top footballer.
“He is 32 now but he still has so much to offer.
“He is fit and is getting fitter so I can only see him getting better.
“He is a top, top player. He sees passes and cuts defences open like other people can’t do.
“People (potential buyers) will be looking at him, for sure, but he is just happy to be involved again and playing football.”
