Niall McGinn in Dundee derby marker as he insists there's 'no fear' in leaving Aberdeen for relegation scrap

Niall McGinn insists he’s ready to play with a smile again - despite swapping a Euro race with Aberdeen for a relegation scrap at Dundee.

The Northern Ireland star was given a rousing reception from Dee fans during his Dark Blue debut in Wednesday’s bottom of the table stalemate with St Johnstone just two days after sealing his switch from Pittodrie.

McGinn was a fans’ favourite in almost a decade with the Dons across two spells.

But his Pittodrie career ended in frustration with just two starts this season - the most recent back in mid-August - as his game time was reduced to a smattering of second half appearances off the bench under Stephen Glass.

McGinn may be 34 but he insists he has plenty left in the tank to help James McPake ’s side climb to safety.

He said: “It is always frustrating when you’re not playing, every player wants to be playing and getting opportunities.

“I didn’t get that recently so it was the right moment in my career to move on.

“I had been at Aberdeen a long time so it was nice to get a good reception from the fans. I played against Dundee many times and it was good to get such a warm welcome here.

“Hopefully I can reward them with good performances on the pitch.

“I had no fears at all about moving clubs after so long with Aberdeen, I have seen a lot of good and bad times at different clubs.

“I just want to be playing with a smile on my face between now and the end of the season.

“Hopefully I can come in here and help us get up the table.

“I only met the boys a couple of days ago and had one training session before the St Johnstone game.

“I’m delighted to be back playing football again, I thought we created chances and were defensively excellent.”

McGinn’s second half introduction at