According to manager Tony Docherty, Dundee’s January transfer business won’t stop with Aaron Donnelly’s arrival.
The 21-year-old Northern Ireland international was signed by the Dark Blues on Wednesday for a three-and-a-half-year contract, and he can start against Rangers on Thursday.
Last term, Donnelly played for Docherty and the Dee for an entire season, making an impression with his all-action performances.
A plan to bring him in, though, failed last summer and was revived this month.
It makes me really happy. Because he was so important last year, I did try to sign him in the summer, Docherty added.
“Try to sign the successful loan players to long-term contracts if you want to grow as a team.
“I tried to do that in the summer, but I’m thankful to Forest for helping me to address the matter.
He’s the kind of young player I believe our club should be pursuing, therefore I’m truly appreciative of John Nelms and Tim Keyes’ backing once more.
“He is 21 years old, made his full international debut while he was with us, and other players look up to him as an example of what they can accomplish.”
It’s really thrilling to have the opportunity to work with him as our player.
And I just witnessed the boys’ response as he entered the dressing room.
“I think it’s great that he feels like he’s a big part of things.”
to get that opportunity to bring him in again.”
More incoming?
Donnelly joins Cesar Garza as additions this month while Luke Graham has returned from loan at Championship leaders Falkirk amid a defensive injury crisis.
The now former Nottingham Forest defender will bolster Docherty’s options at the back.
And the Dundee boss won’t hesitate to add further options.
“Cesar Garza and Donnelly have come in. We’re always looking, as a recruitment team, at areas that we can strengthen,” Docherty added.
“It’s been exacerbated by the injury situation we’ve got and that’s why I’m really thankful to John Nelms and Tim Keyes for allowing me to bring in Aaron.
“But, yes, we’ll continue to look throughout the window.
“We’ll look at the market and if we see any areas which we need strengthened and players that are available and within budget, then we’ll do it.”
Outgoings
Dundee’s squad is a small one, particularly with the amount of injuries they are carrying.
However, outgoings are also expected this month confirmed the Dens boss.
“Again, that’s a whole part of the process,” he said.
“When you’re at a club like Dundee, you realise you can’t just keep bringing in. You need to make sure you balance the books as well.
“So, yes, that’s something we’re actively doing as well.”
Contract terms agreed
Docherty also confirmed good news on the contract front.
The Dark Blues offered eight of their out-of-contract stars new deals in November.
None have yet been signed but the Dundee boss revealed Fin Robertson has agreed terms with the club to extend his stay beyond the summer
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