Dundee head coach Steven Pressley has opened up about what he describes as an "exceptionally challenging" season back in management—one that has tested him both professionally and personally.
After a six-year hiatus from the dugout, Pressley's appointment at Dens Park last summer raised eyebrows across Scottish football. Now, as the season reaches its climax, the former Scotland international has offered a candid reflection on the journey.
"I've seen a lot of growth in myself as a human being," Pressley admitted. "A job like ours—where you're constantly fighting for survival—is really challenging. When you look at our club's history, we're either battling to stay up or trying to win promotion from the division below. It can be a lonely job at times."
Dundee currently sit ninth in the Premiership table, and a victory over already-relegated Livingston this Saturday would secure their top-flight status. It's a position that few predicted when Pressley took the reins, but one that speaks to the resilience he's instilled in his squad.
"You learn a lot about yourself during these dark periods," he continued. "But that's football management, and we have to accept it. I've been in the game long enough to know this is part of the journey. What I will say is that this job challenges you more than most—and as a result, I've grown personally. That's important to me."
Pressley's appointment was met with skepticism from some Dundee supporters, but his team's attractive style of play and impending survival have quieted many critics. When asked if he feels he's won over the doubters, Pressley remained characteristically level-headed.
"I don't know—football changes so quickly, and people's opinions are usually based on results. I understand the environment. I'm very process-driven, so I try to stay balanced. I don't get too high with a win or too low with a loss. I focus on the performance. I don't look too much at myself—I'm a servant to the club."
As Dundee prepare for their crucial final-day showdown, Pressley's message is clear: survival would be a testament to the growth of everyone involved—coach, players, and club alike.