Gallagher can be best in the league, claims Brown

Dundee boss issues challenge to young defender

DUNDEE BOSS John Brown has challenged Declan Gallagher to prove he is the top centre-half in the Championship and not just one of the best.

The 22-year-old former Clyde defender has become a permanent fixture in the Dark Blues’ rear guard this season and has formed a promising partnership with the more experienced Iain Davidson, who has dropped back from his usual midfield role.

“Davo” produced an outstanding display against Queen of the South last weekend and Brown believes Gallagher can learn a lot from the 29-year-old, especially in terms of controlled aggression.

The manager said: “Iain is learning the position but overall he has been fantastic.

“I played in a number of positions myself and I recognised that he is one the best headers at the club in terms of aggression and attacking the ball.

“He reads the game well and I think that will extend his career moving from midfield into central defence.

“I remember Davie Weir at Rangers wasn’t the greatest of talkers but he did his talking on the park with his positional sense.

He added: “Davo also reads the game well. He is a good sounding board for Gallagher who is one of the better centre-halves in the division. “I think it is a good partnership there. “I feel that if Gallagher can learn from what Davo has in terms of aggression and not take too many chances dwelling on the ball, then he can become a better player.

“Gallagher is only 22. I signed for Dundee when I was 22 so he is a still a young lad.

“But he has been here a couple of years and he should be kicking on showing he is the best central defender in the division not just one of the best.

“Every manager will say you push all of your players to be the best in the league.

“I think he has the potential to do that — it is up to him how much he wants it.”

Picture: SNS Group. Declan Gallagher has enjoyed a fine season so far at Dens.