Dobbie eyes a double century of Queens goals

Stephen Dobbie is dreaming of reaching the double century for Queen of the South, despite accepting he will miss the start of the season with a hamstring injury.

Dobbie slammed a remarkable 43 goals last season – breaking the club record – and even then Queens had to survive the play-offs to retain their Ladbrokes Championship status.

Attheageof36theformer Hibs striker is as driven as ever and confirmed he will finish his career at Palmerston.

“I’ve scored 153 goals for Queens. To get to 200 would obviously be great,” said Dobbie.

“I couldn’t turn around now and say I’m going to

STEPHEN DOBBIE “Giving back what Queens have given me is important”

retire at the end of the season. In my mind I’ll also be playing next season.

“But I’ll be finishing my career at Queens. I have had a few offers over the years but for me giving back what Queens have given me is important.

“Every goal I score now is special. That’s been the same all my career. But maybe now, when I’m coming towards the end, it’s a bit more special every time.

“Helping the younger boys, especially the young strikers coming through at the club, and showing how I dedicate myself on and off the pitch, is important. I try to set an example.”

Queens open up at Gayfield against League 1 winners Arbroath on Saturday.

Dobbie said: “I’ve a small tear in my hamstring, so I’ll probably miss the first two league games.

“I’m feeling fit and it’s just precautionary to try to let it heal because it takes longer at my age.

“Last season, we went on a nine-game losing run which didn’t help us, but the aim is the same as last year. If we can push for the play-offs, great.”