Dundee exited the League Cup group after back-to-back defeats by lower-league opposition last year. The team had a five-game winless start to the Scottish Premiership season, with a 2-0 loss to Dundee United in their fourth fixture of the five-match run. Dundee was second bottom of the table after the derby loss last August, but managed to survive with three victories in the final four league games at the end of last term. They finished eighth in the Scottish Premiership last season.
However, Dundee's fortunes have changed under the leadership of head coach Steven Pressley. Pressley, who has previously worked as the head coach at Carlisle and Brentford, has instilled confidence in his players and created a positive environment for them to excel in. The team's loan signings, including Drey Wright, who joined from St Johnstone, and Alan Forrest, who was discarded by Hearts, have made significant contributions to the team's success. Wright scored the opener in the derby win, while Forrest has been a valuable addition to the team.
Dundee's ability to win away from home has been a key factor in their success, with Pressley praising his players for being comfortable with the uncomfortable. The team's grit and determination have been evident in their performances, and Pressley's leadership has been instrumental in driving this success. Dundee has now won five of their past seven Premiership matches, a significant improvement from their winless start to the season.