DUNDEE striker Marcus Haber decided against returning home to Canada to make sure he is in peak condition when the action restarts with a Scottish Cup-tie against St Mirren on January 21.
Paul Hartley’s players are taking advantage of a week’s rest during the winter break before returning to training next week, with a friendly due against Arbroath on Tuesday.
Haber thought about flying across the Atlantic for a few days, but opted to remain in Tayside to keep “ticking over”.
He said: “I could have gone home, but I’ve decided to stay here. My family have been over for Christmas, so I’ve had the chance to see them.
“I just thought that all the travelling to Canada and back wasn’t worth it.
“It’s better for me to stay here, get a bit of rest, but also keep training away and making sure my fitness is ticking over properly.
“The break is good for the team and good for the players because it’s a chance to get some rest.
“Hopefully, we can recharge the batteries and come back from it stronger.”
Dundee finished the year in great form with a 3-0 win over St Johnstone at Dens Park on Hogmanay.