Dundee’s Kyle Benedictus insists the thin blue backline available to boss Barry Smith will hold firm against Stirling Albion.
With Rhys Weston, Craig McKeown and Gary Irvine all suspended, Benedictus and Matt Lockwood are the only recognised first-choice defenders left.
However, the 19-year-old, who was out on loan at Montrose earlier this season, believes whoever fills in at the back in Sunday’s match will do a good job especially with goalkeeper Rab Douglas roaring them on.
“Our defence is going to be patched up against Stirling because we don’t have many bodies left now,” said Bendictus.
“It’s going to be difficult because there will be big changes, but we will still have guys like Matt Lockwood and Rab Douglas with plenty of experience.
“They have been a massive influence this season. Matt has played a lot of games in England and is a top player, while Rab is a Scotland international and has seen it all in his career.
“Rab is brilliant at keeping everyone right and organising the defence. He is always talking and certainly doesn’t miss you if he thinks you need to improve on a part of your game. He likes to shout, but that’s what you need in a keeper.
“They have been great for me because I am still learning the game and you want to listen to these kind of guys.”
Sunday’s opponents are managed by former Dundee boss Jocky Scott, who handed Benedictus his debut for the Dark Blues nearly three years ago.
Dundee could consign Stirling to the drop, and while Benedictus has the utmost respect for Scott, he insists there is no room for sentiment as his own club looks to move clear of the relegation play-off spot.
He said, “We have five massive games left this season and want to get as many points as we can to make sure we are safe from relegation.”