Matchwinner Mullen out to prove his worth

St Mirren striker Danny Mullen is ready to welcome added competition in Paisley after insisting he belongs in the Ladbrokes Premiership.

Buddies boss Alan Stubbs is set to step up his pursuit of fresh attacking options this week. However, Mullen wants the chance to prove he can lead the line for the Championship winners in the top flight.

He opened his Premiership account on Saturday as his double fired Stubbs’ newly-promoted side to an opening-day win over Dundee. Mullen has no problem with his manager looking for fresh faces but will not be handing over his jersey without a fight.

The former Livingston frontman said: “I feel myself that we need another striker in. There is a bit of speculation about Ross Stewart leaving but for me, it’s all about healthy competition for the team.

“Hopefully I’ve done enough to stay in the starting line-up. I feel I’ve got a point to prove. I’ve always felt I belonged in this league and that I can do it at this level. I’ve worked my way up, I’m here now and I just hope I can kick on from these first two goals.”

Dundee fell behind when Mullen headed home nine minutes in but were level moments later as Elton Ngwatala rifled in off the post.

The Dark Blues then threw away the points as first Sofien Moussa failed to convert a second-half penalty before keeper Jack Hamilton gifted Mullen his winner late on with a horror gaffe. Disappointed Dens boss Neil Mccann was left cursing his team’s luck but believes there were signs of encouragement in Renfrewshire. He said: “There is plenty to be positive about, but it doesn’t feel like that at this moment.

“The least we should be coming away from here with is a point. It’s disappointing for the fans who turned out in great numbers.

“We made a mistake that gave the game away but we have created a number of chances. I’m delighted Elton got on the scoresheet. It was a fantastic strike. That’s why we brought him here. ”