Second chance for French defender

McCann to take another look at trialist Nganioni in clash with SC Farense

Dundee have given French defender Louis Nganioni the chance to impress during their pre-season stay in Portugal.

The 23-year-old, who has been at Olympique Lyon in his homeland, played as a trialist at left-back during Sunday’s defeat to Portimonense in Albufeira.

The Dark Blues face their final fixture of the trip tonight against local side SC Farense before returning home to Scotland tomorrow.

Nganioni joins fellow trialist Adil Nabi, the Peterborough United forward, in trying to earn a contract.

“I am just having a look at a couple of boys,” said McCann.

“Nabi did really well against Cowdenbeath last week but, unfortunately, we couldn’t have a look at him the other day because he picked up a wee knock. He will get some game time against Farense.

“Louis is just a player who I got put towards by an agent and we did a wee bit of homework on him. I thought he was worth a look because we are maybe a wee bit short in that left-back position.

“We will get another look at him in the next game.”

McCann is expecting another challenge against Farense tonight back in Albufeira after his men tired in the heat as they lost 4-0 to Portimonense.

“When we got back to the hotel after the game you could see how tired the players were,” he said.

“When you have people in the middle of the park, the engine room of the team, asking to go into the shade then you know it has been tough.

“I wasn’t too upset and I hope the fans won’t be either.

“I don’t like getting beat, as everyone knows, but I think the first 30 minutes showed me that the work we have been doing over here is excellent.

“I bumped into Andy Liddle (Ipswich’s fitness coach) the other day, who I know from the Scotland under-21s.

“He mentioned Farense and how they are a really good side. It will be a test and it is about managing the squad properly.”