Dundee V Dundee Utd - view commentary, squad, and statistics of the game live.Hartley wary of out-of-form UnitedDundee manager Paul Hartley is not reading too much into Dundee United's recent slide ahead of Wednesday night's Scottish Premiership derby at Dens Park.United have lost seven of their last nine matches in all competitions, drawing the other two, while their last league victory was way back on January 24 against Motherwell.However, Hartley is refusing to believe that will make his side's job any easier as they attempt to register their first win in a derby this season at the fourth attempt.Hartley said: "They've still got good playersWe're under no illusion about the talent they have throughout the squad."We've seen it throughout the season - and in games against us, in particular
We know they've got players who can hurt you anywhere
We need to be focused on what we can do."Dundee are without a win in three matches themselves, following up their defeat to Ross County with 1-1 draws against Aberdeen and Inverness.That has left them in seventh place in the table on 41 points, five behind fourth-placed United and two adrift of Hamilton in sixth.Hartley said: "We're trying to look at getting as many points before the split, try to get into that top six."We're not far off but we know we need to win some games."If we get a result in the derby, it takes us a couple of points behind United, yes
But the main thing for us is trying to catch our nearest opponent."Dundee defender James McPake will be given until the last minute to prove his fitness ahead of the derby after being sent for a scan on his knee.Hartley said: "He caught his knee in training on Thursday, did very little on Friday and felt OK throughout the Inverness game
He just landed awkwardly from a corner."Defender Gary Irvine (knee), midfielder Gary Harkins (shin) and striker Luka Tankulic (knee) remain out.Dundee United assistant manager Simon Donnelly believes his side have every right to be confident going into the derby despite their recent woes.United have won all three City of Discovery clashes so far this season and will look to continue that derby winning streak when they make the short trip.Donnelly said: "It's one we're looking forward to
We've got good memories off all three derbies and have enjoyed them all."It's always something you want to have when it comes to games against your local rivals and we've got that because of the effort of the lads."There is a pride element too within the dressing room because we've won three and want to keep that record going and it's something the supporters obviously enjoy."We know it won't be easy against Dundee but it's something we'll be striving for."Of course, we want to get back to winning ways."When you look at the table, we're still in the mix for a European slot and aren't that far behind Inverness."There's plenty still to play for and they don't come much bigger than a Dundee derby live on television."Defender Ryan McGowan returns to the United squad after suspension but midfielder Ryan Dow is a doubt with a groin complaint.Defender Calum Morris (thigh strain) and striker Mario Bilate (hamstring) remain out
Source : PA
Source: PA