Tony Docherty is confident that Simon Murray will surpass last season’s goal tally after the striker’s double against Annan Athletic on Tuesday night. Murray’s performance helped Dundee advance to the knockout stages of the Premier Sports Cup, and Docherty believes that there will be many more goals to come from the 32-year-old.
Murray, who netted 23 goals for Ross County last season, including 14 in the Premiership, has already made a significant impact since returning to his hometown club. Docherty is thrilled to have secured a proven top-flight goalscorer and sees potential for even greater achievements this season.
“I believe he can beat last season’s total, I really do,” said Docherty. “I am a real fan of Simon. I’ve watched him for a long time and he has undoubtedly developed as a footballer. He is scoring a lot of goals but if you look at his overall game it is getting better and better. Sometimes that happens with players when they mature.”
Docherty revealed that securing Murray’s transfer was a priority, having pursued the striker since the summer and previously shown interest in January. He emphasized the importance of bringing in a player with Murray’s goal-scoring prowess to enhance the team’s attacking capabilities.
“We did really well last season in terms of goal scoring but now we have a striker who has hit double figures,” Docherty noted.
The manager also highlighted Murray’s decision to return to Dundee, turning down interest from Hibs, as a sign of the club’s positive trajectory. Docherty is focused on improving the club in every aspect and sees Murray’s signing as a key part of that effort.
“We had to make sure he knew he was coming to a place that was on the up,” Docherty added. “I want to improve and upgrade the club in every way the best I can. He is the perfect example of that and I am thrilled to get him.”
Docherty is excited about Murray’s contributions both on and off the pitch. “The impact he has made already, in terms of what he brings to the football club, is hugely exciting. To get a striker of this quality – 23 goals without penalties – everybody is looking for that quality and we have him in the building.”
