DUNDEE MAY be facing the most daunting of double-headers but winger Nicky Riley is relishing the Christmas challenge.
First up for the Dark Blues is a long trip up the A9 tomorrow to take on arguably the SPL team of the season so far, Inverness Caley Thistle.
The high-flying Highlanders are on a run of only one defeat in their last 17 matches and caught the attention of the nation last Saturday when they stormed back from 3-0 down away to Dundee United.
Then comes a visit from Scotland’s Champions League last-16 representatives Celtic, with Neil Lennon bringing his league leaders to Dens Park on Boxing Day.
You don’t get much harder a festive programme than that but Riley, having had his own appearances this term restricted because of injury, can’t wait for it all to unfold.
He said: “They don’t come much bigger than this, do they?
“It is a big challenge but we are confident going into these games that we can still pick up points.
“They are all hard games in the SPL although we couldn’t have asked for any tougher than Inverness, followed by Celtic.
“You enjoy playing games and they are certainly coming thick and fast over the festive period.
“It’s better than training and all the lads are relishing the busy schedule which hopefully brings out the best in us.”
Riley is one man most fans feel relieved to see is in the line-up and he belives he is getting back to his best.
He said: “Hopefully, the second part of the season from January onwards can be a lot better for me.
“Although I’ve played a few games, I just feel as though I’m not as sharp as I was before.
“But that will come through games and the more match-fitness I get under my belt the better.”
iroache@thecourier.co.uk