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LEIGH OUT

Leigh Griffiths’ Dundee absence explained by James McPake as club continue to work on deal for free agent

JAMES McPAKE says talks are ongoing with Leigh Griffiths as Dundee look to tie the striker down.

Griffiths is not in the Dark Blues’ squad for tonight’s derby at Dens Park.

Dundee working on Leigh Griffiths deal
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Dundee working on Leigh Griffiths deal

But the former Celtic striker IS watching from the stands.

McPake revealed Griffiths’ deal had ran out and was no longer part of the Dundee squad and so couldn’t be involved tonight.

But he says talks will continue to be had as he hopes to persuade the free agent to stay at the club.

Ahead of the clash tonight, he told BBC Sportsound: “Officially Leigh’s time ended today at the club.

“There are talks ongoing and how they pan out we’ll have to wait and see.


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“But tonight’s sole focus is on the Dundee derby.”

James McFadden says the forward now needs to prove himself without the 'safety net' for a long-term Celtic deal behind him.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Faddy said: "The biggest thing for Leigh Griffiths now is he doesn't have the safety net of a long contract at Celtic.

"James McPake says he wants what's best for Griffiths, he's going to try to get the best out of him.

"But it doesn't matter who's trying to get the best out of him - it's down to him, whether he gets the best out of himself.

"It's good that the manager has put confidence in him but it's all down to him.

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"He's got an opportunity to get back fit and show that he can still score goals.

"It's great that he's getting that support but he's always had it.

"He's had it at Celtic for the last four or five years, all throughout his struggles.

"But now it's down to Griffiths and hopefully the penny drops for him.

"He does have a point to prove. He's in his 30s, and has to go and show that he's still the player everyone thinks he is.

"He's got a great opportunity to go and play for Dundee and it would be a huge achievement for him to fire the goals in and keep them in the league."


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