Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
Clarkson can be the missing link
Paul Hartley reckons striker David Clarkson could prove to be the final piece in his Dundee jigsaw.
In the early part of the season, the big criticism of the Dark Blues was that they lacked a cutting edge in the final third.
But since the Scotland international’s arrival, and his return to fitness, the goals have started to flow, particularly for Clarkson.
Since making a goalscoring appearance off the bench on his debut at Ross County, the front man has never looked back.
The 29-year-old has started the last three outings and netted in each one, taking his tally to four in four since signing on the dotted line at Dens Park.
Paul, who played alongside Clarkson at Bristol City, reckons if the striker keeps getting the correct service, the goals will continue to flow.
“Hopefully, he is the missing link,” said the manager.
“You can’t argue that we seem to be scoring some goals now.
“As a team, you are only ever as good as your strikers — that’s something I’ve learned at every single club I’ve been at. It’s such a vital position in the team.
“When you don’t score goals you are going to struggle.
“With Clarky up there, we have managed to score goals.”
During his time south of the border, at both Bristol clubs, City and Rovers, he mainly operated as a wide man.
Playing off a striker is definitely not Clarkson’s strength, according to Paul.
The gaffer points to his early days at Motherwell for proof that Clarkson is, without doubt, a proper No
Paul Hartley. 9. “Clarky is a main striker,” said Paul.
“He has a lot of quality in that area, he was just never used as that down south.
“We knew if we could get him fit and sharp he could be a success.
“He’s never been a wide player, he’s a proper No 9.
“If we keep him up there and get him good service, he’ll score goals.”
Meanwhile, full-back Willie Dyer made a return to action last night in Dundee’s SPFL Development League win over Aberdeen. Goals from Martin Boyle and Lee Cameron (2) ensured a 3-2 win over the Dons.
Goalkeeper Arvid Schenk made his debut, having signed on a free on Saturday, while firstteamers Kevin Thomson, Phil Roberts Craig Wighton and Cammy Kerr were also involved.