Three of the younger players at Tannadice started their summer breaks early today-on the orders of Paul Sturrock.The manager has told David McCracken, David Partridge and Steven Fallon they need not report for training against this week.
The two Davids are both suspended for Sunday's final SPL game at Celtic (Partridge is also injured), while Fallon's campaign has been dogged by injury. All have had plenty of games and Paul feels it is important for them to have a good break over the summer.
"McCracken and Partridge have both played around 50 games and what they need more than anything is a good break this summer," says Paul.
"I've told them and Steven Fallon to have a complete break during their time off. That's something I'll be saying to most of the squad because with just five weeks between our last game and the start of pre-season training it is important all the ones who need it get a good rest."
One exception to that will be Canadian goalie Pat Onstad who played his first game for the under-21s since a knee operation in March.
The international, will be working on his fitness during the holiday and will also join Jason de Vos in the Canada squad for forthcoming World Cup qualifiers.
Meanwhile, negotiations with Alan Combe and Bernard Pascual, both of whom are out of contract during the close season, are continuing.