Dark Blues are a stronger group this time – McPake

He added: “I still don’t think we are completely there.

“I don’t know if I will ever think that.

“In terms of training and that, then yes.

“The international break came at a good time for us because we hadn’t yet had the chance to integrate Graham Dorrans into the squad.

“We also had Jamie Ness coming back so it was a really good time to get a week’s training done.

“Then we have had the games coming in thick and fast and you can see the benefit of that week.

“The boys have been getting to know each other and what’s good and their strengths.

“It is tough to just tell them that, you need to work on it day in, day out on the training field. I think even the top teams will tell you that.

“Getting a settled squad after the window shut and being able to work with the boys – that has certainly helped us.”

Meanwhile, the Dens boss is hopeful left-back Jordan Marshall will be fit to start on Friday after he limped off early in the 2-1 win over Morton last week.

James said: “He is OK, I think. “We left him out of training yesterday but he is gradually getting better. Hopefully, we caught it at the right time.

“He did look a bit tired the other night, as did some others.

“We are asking Jordan and the others to press hard in the game but, hopefully, he will be all right.

“The fans have taken to him and I can see why. He is very consistent and has a good end product as well which goes under-rated at times.

“We will get him through this week and he will be fine.”