Dundee signing Tom Hateley aims to be 'driving force'
Tom Hateley believes he can make an impact all over the pitch for new club Dundee.
The 26-year-old has spent the last two-and-a-half seasons playing in Poland's top tier for Slask Wroclaw, but this week returned to Scotland to join Paul Hartley's side.
Hateley largely played at right-back during more than 170 appearances for Motherwell despite arriving at Fir Park as a holding midfielder.
But he believes that his time spent in European football has improved his game, so he can now contribute at both ends of the pitch.
Ahead of his potential Ladbrokes Premiership debut against Kilmarnock, Hateley said: "Playing European football was always something I wanted to do.
"Whether you'd said to me Poland was the country I would have gone to I probably would have said no, but it was the call that came. And I didn't hesitate to take it, and it was a great experience for me.
"Our manager at my last club wanted 60-80 per cent possession each game, so for me playing in the middle of the park I was on the ball a lot. I always wanted to develop that technical side of my game, and I feel that was the perfect opportunity and that's what I did.
"I'll look to get on the football, I want to get around and make tackles, I've got assists and goals in me. I feel like I can bring a driving force into the team, somebody that's been here and played in the Scottish league. I like to try and lead by example."
Boss Lee Clark revealed Kris Boyd made an emotional address to the Kilmarnock dressing room following the death of his younger brother earlier in the week.
Scott Boyd, 27, was found dead at home by their mother Maureen in Auchinleck, Ayrshire on Wednesday.
Clark expressed his sympathy on behalf of everyone at the club and will leave it up to the 33-year-old former Rangers striker to decide whether he wants to play on Saturday.
"It has been tough for the football club since we learned the news on Wednesday morning," he told Press Association Sport.
"Our supporters, the board and everyone connected with the football club send their deepest condolences to Kris and his family.
"I addressed the players on Wednesday and Kris came in today and addressed the players.
"It was emotional for everybody. It was emotional for me, the staff, for the players because we are very close.
"It was a delivery of a speech from a very strong character, a very experienced man.
"Him and his family have had an horrendous few days and it was very emotional but it shows me that the group has a tremendous togetherness and we will stay strong for him.
"Whatever Kris needs, we will support. We will be there every step of the way, whatever is needed.
"I have been speaking to Kris since the horrendous news and it will be left up to him, it is his decision, whether playing or training. I will be guided by him.
"The best tribute to Kris, his family and his late brother, that we can go there (Dundee), put on a performance and get the win."
Source: PAR
