'Euro bid now the tallest of orders'

A home defeat to St Mirren last time out was a major body blow to Dundee’s hopes of securing the one remaining European spot.

Fifth-place Saints are now very much in the box seat, with a five-point advantage over the Dark Blues with just three rounds of games to go.

As the Premiership new boys Dundee have already upset the odds in how well they have done this term. They are now going to have to do that again, and more, if they are to be digging out the passports.

Tony Docherty’s side need to chalk up wins and hope for some big favours from elsewhere.

It looks like the tallest of orders – their next two games are away to Hearts and Rangers – so fulfilling their side of the bargain appears a big ask.

However, as long as it remains arithmetically possible, Docherty will ensure his team give everything to that cause.

Following Saturday’s defeat, he admitted "we didn't turn up" in a performance that has been uncharacteristic of his side this season.

Nevertheless, he will know that if they can get back to their best then they will give themselves a chance of remaining in the Euro mix.

The very fact it remains a possibility is testament to the progress of Docherty's team.