Left-back battle looming at Dens

NEIL McCann believes a major battle for the left-back slot at Dundee is brewing.

With Kevin Holt his only recognised specialist for the role at first-team level, Neil fixed up experienced Spaniard Jon Aurtenetxe on a deal until January.

Despite the former Athletic Bilbao man instantly i mpressing in training, Holt’s form has forced him to wait for his competitive debut.

But Neil is convinced that has a lot to do with the 25-year-old’s arrival.

“Jon is good. He’s unfortunate that Holtie has kicked on a bit and has been looking good the last few games.

“Holtie knows that if his performances dip Jon is there and he’s reacted.

“Some players don’t enjoy that competition but he has and upped his performances.

“If a situation arises through injuries or suspension, Jon has proved he’s ready to come in.

“I like my full-backs to play with a purpose and get forward and he does that.

“He has a real good pedigree and he is quality.

“I gave him a few days off last week to go back to Spain and he came back ready to go again.”

Neil has also been impressed by the other Spaniard on the books at Dens, Julen Etxabeguren.

He is nearing consideration for a first team place after six months out with a ruptured Achilles tendon.

And he admits being able to call on him will be like making a new signing.

“I didn’t know too much about him and you don’t really get to know a player until you work with them.

“He’s an intelligent player and I’ve got to know him over the last month or so.

“He’s like a new signing. Kosta Gadzhalov and Josh Meekings are coming back as well so it’s almost like making signings outside the window.”

All three defenders could be involved when Celtic are faced in Development League action at Cappielow tonight.

Meanwhile, Dundee are holding discussions with the Hoops regarding on loan midfielder Scott Allan’s rehab from a groin injury.

Allan went under the knife last week and is expected to be out for at least the rest of this month.

And although he’s at Dens for the rest of the season, as his permanent employers it’s down to the Hoops where he will spend his recovery.

Spanish left-back Jon Aurtenetxe has yet to feature for Dundee but has been on the bench multiple times since his arrival in August.