Dundee FC manager Steven Pressley calls for resilience and character from his squad after a challenging start to his reign, with two cup defeats ending their Premier Sports Cup hopes early.
The Premier Sports Cup group stage delivered high drama, with Dundee facing an early exit after stunning upsets. St Johnstone snatched a late winner, while St Mirren and Ayr United delivered goal fests, setting a thrilling stage for the competition's progression.
Steven Pressley's Dundee FC managerial debut was marked by a 1-0 Premier Sports Cup defeat to Airdrieonians. The new gaffer swiftly highlighted the extensive work needed, acknowledging the squad's disjointed play and the critical need for more training time.
The Premier Sports Cup kicked off with unexpected results. St Mirren lost a penalty shootout, Steven Pressley's Dundee suffered a home defeat, and Ross County stumbled. But Falkirk soared with a 7-0 win, while Kilmarnock and Livingston also won.
The Scottish League Cup, now Premier Sports Cup, begins its 80th anniversary with a major broadcast deal. Forty teams compete in unique group stages, featuring intriguing rules and new managerial debuts across Scotland.
French left-back Ziyad Larkeche, 22, has signed a new contract with Queens Park Rangers. His successful loan at Dundee last season, where he made 22 appearances, played a key role in his development and desire to continue with QPR.
Dundee's new captain, Simon Murray, is brimming with ambition, hoping to lead the club to Scottish Cup success or even European football, echoing Aberdeen's recent triumph. The striker, who recently had a penalty saved, is excited by new boss Steven Pressley's vision.
Former forward Cillian Sheridan casts doubt on Tony Bloom's £9.86m Hearts investment, suggesting it's insufficient to break Celtic and Rangers' decades-long dominance in Scottish football, despite the optimism surrounding the deal.
Tony Docherty expresses 'shock' following his dismissal as Dundee manager despite a 10th-place finish. Reflecting on a tenure he’s proud of, Docherty cites a challenging second season and player development as highlights.