Parish takes his pew at Dens

DUNDEE manager Neil McCann is happy with the competition throughout his squad after bringing in former Colchester and Accrington goalkeeper Elliott Parish.

The 27-year-old will challenge Scott Bain for the number one spot after arriving on a one-year contract on Thursday, following the earlier departure of back-up goalkeeper David Mitchell to Falkirk.

“I felt I needed experienced gloves behind Bainy, not only to provide cover but to give him a push and drive him on,” said McCann ahead of today’s’s Betfred Cup clash with Buckie Thistle.

“We have real competition throughout the outfield positions now and I felt we needed that in goal as well.

“Elliott will come in and push Bainy to be the No.1. He is the type of boy who is relishing the challenge.”

McCann has now made eight summer signings and is content with how his squad is shaping up.

He said: “We’ve got a big squad. If you ask any manager there is always room for one more, but if not then I am pleased with what I have.”

Dundee began their cup campaign with a last-gasp 2-1 victory over Raith Rovers on Tuesday and McCann has told his side to keep building momentum against the Highland League champions, who have lost seven goals in two defeats against Cowdenbeath and Dundee United.

“We’re coming up against a side who are coming down to give us bother,” he said.

“We are not going to be disrespectful to them and think it’s going to be an easy ride. It’s not.

“But it’s an opportunity for us to get another win. We are playing at home and it’s been a constant message that we get into a winning mentality.

“The cohesion and rhythm is not going click after four friendlies and one competitive game. That understanding will take time to kick in but this game gives us another chance to work on that and I am of the mind that it will happen.”