Meekings now back to full fitness, says Mccann

Dundee boss Neil Mccann is confident Josh Meekings is back to full fitness after coming through his debut against Celtic.

The centre-back joined theclub in the summer but had not played a game since 2016 after suffering a knee injury with Inverness.

He had made a gradual return to training with the Dee, and when MCC ann threw him in at the deep end at Celtic Park last Saturday, he was rewarded with a promising display.

Mccann admitted there couldstill be comp li cations following the injury, but was encouraged by his latest addition.

“Josh Meekings was outstanding on Saturday, considering he hadn’t played a first team game since about January,” he said.

“We have spent a lot of time on him, not only physically but mentally, and to throw him in against Celtic was not an easy decision.

“I felt Josh got better and stronger as the game went on. I think he enjoyed it and he will make an impact for us this season.”

He added: “We will have to manageit, of course. You’ re not out for that length of time and expect everything to be running smoothly.

“Having been there before myself and having bad injuries, you get silly niggles after. When you come back you ride such a wave and a high, and then there’s a dip and physically that’s draining.

“I have to manage that and make sure he is looked after, and make sure I’ m not flogging a dead horse when he needs a rest, but we have such good numbers that we can rotate it.”

Dundee, who have shown signs of improvement after as low start, tomorrow face Par tick Thistle, who remain without a win.

Mc Cann said he had not expected to see Alan Archibald’ s side struggling.

“I’m surprised given how well they did last season, getting into the top six.

“Injury problems can hamper you and a lack of confidence when you’ re not winning games can have an impact. But all runs come to an end– unless you’re Celtic.”