Barry Smith believes Colin Nish is a Dundee unsung hero.
He feels there should be a greater appreciation of his contribution to the Dark Blues’ cause from outwith the Dens Park dressing room.
Smith was full of praise for the former Hibs and Kilmarnock man, who played a big part in the team’s Scottish Cup demolition of First Division high-flyers Morton.
There was a goal, two assists and plenty more besides.
Smith said: “I thought he was excellent for us on Sunday.
“He had a great knockdown for Bairdy’s goal and he had a great knockdown for Jimmy’s goal.
“I think he was looking away for his own goal! But a goal’s a goal and that’s what strikers need.
“I think he contributes a lot more than folk give him credit for.
“He puts in a shift and people need to give him credit for that. We want him to get goals, and I’m glad he got one.
“But his overall performance is what’s really important to the team and I don’t think everybody sees that.”
According to Smith, Nish was re-energised by the mid-season winter break.
“He was one of those who benefited from the wee lay-off in the new year,” he said.
“It gave him time to up his fitness levels and get other things right with his body.
“He was able to work without there being a game.”
Meanwhile, Smith is still trying to bolster his squad, with another striker a target.