DEE LIGHTFUL

Docherty reckons Tannadice derby is perfect way to kick off campaign

- SCOTT BURNS

TONY DOCHERTY believes the opening-day Dundee derby has given the new season a real buzz and is a chance to showcase our game.

The SPFL fixtures were released yesterday and the clash between Dundee United and Docherty's Dark Blues has got everybody talking Newly-promoted United will unfurl the Championship flag at Tannadice on Sunday August 4 before taking on their rivals from across the road.

And the Dundee boss said: "Anything we can do to enhance the product, which is a great product, this is a great example - a Dundee derby on TV.

"There will be real excitement in the city. Wow! How good is that? Brilliant.

"It's everything good about Scottish football. They've got that totally right.

"I was listening to TalkSport and they were talking about the Dundee derby so the exposure that will get will be a brilliant advert for Scottish football.

"When the news came in, we were pulling the players off the ceiling because it is just an exciting start to the campaign.

"We are all buzzing for it." Docherty lives on the outskirts of Dundee and knows how important the bragging rights are.

He admitted: "It is good banter - for now! I've found it great and that's an appeal about being up here.