Ravanelli delight at debut

Fabrizio Ravanelli set up the goal on his debut

Rusty Dundee debutant Fabrizio Ravanelli warned neighbours Dundee United that he will be fitter and sharper when the two sides meet next Sunday in the Tayside derby.

The Italian made a positive start to his Dens Park career after a four-month lay-off from football by setting up Nacho Novo for the only goal of the game against Partick Thistle before being substituted to a standing ovation 10 minutes from time.

It was clear that the former Juventus and Middlesbrough player was still a bit short of fitness, but Ravanelli insisted that another week's training will see him ready to take on United at Tannadice.

"It was my first game in a long time and my sharpness has to be better, but I enjoyed it because my performance was not bad and I gave a very good ball for Nacho's goal," he said.

I know all the fans will want to win this game Dundee forward Fabrizio Ravanelli

"Three points were good for the team and good for morale, because next Sunday is a very big match against Dundee United.

"We have a week to work hard, but it will be enjoyable because we won against Partick.

"It will be my first Dundee derby, but I know all the fans will want to win this game and the players too. That is the target.

"Every day, I feel better. After a long time out, it's not easy to be very sharp and play fantastic, but I enjoyed it.

"But I think next week I'll play better than I did against Partick."

Have your say: BBC Scotland Fans Forum

---