With former Argentinian international Claudio Caniggia set to sign next week, the foreign influence on the Tayside team looks to be further strengthened.

But Smith said: "Players like Caniggia are big names so it's good for the club and good for the supporters.

"As long as they're quality players I don't think the Scots guys in the team will bother too much.

"It's if they are average players who are no better than the Scots players here which could make it disappointing.

"But as long as they are quality players who are prepared to play for Dundee, I don't think there is a problem.

"Certainly the foreigners who have come have settled in and are as passionate as the Scots lads."

Smith claimed that being skipper of a team where a language barrier exists is no problem and, indeed, played down the importance of the role.

He said: "I'm captain but, as I said before, everyone on the park should be captain.

"Everyone has their own part to play in the team and I'm only really there to shout heads or tails.

"Communication on the park is OK and the foreigners are all going to English classes so that can only help them, at least they're making the effort."

The goalless draw with Kilmarnock was not one of the most entertaining games Dundee have been involved in this season.

However, the Dens Park men extended their unbeaten home record and with more new signings imminent, a European place can not be ruled out.

But Smith was cautious, saying: "I think we would settle for a place in the top six at this moment, anything after that is a bonus.

"The manager has stressed it is important that we do that so hopefully we'll get into that position."

But once again Dundee had a player sent off which adds to their woeful disciplinary record this season.

The culprit on this occasion was big defender Lee Wilkie who was shown the red card after a last-man foul on Kilmarnock substitute Craig Dargo.

But Smith was in a philosophical mood, saying: "To be honest I thought their player was offside but if he's not then it's a good foul.

"If he was going to score, then we have to consider it a good foul. But I'm not even sure he was last man.

"Shaun McSkimming was getting back but the referee decided Wilkie was last man. The referee's got to make the decision instantly and so that's it, it's finished now."