He added: ""Even those of us who have been chasing trophies before have never faced a time like this.

"This game against United  - on a Saturday morning - is the fourth game in nine days and they are coming thick and fast.

"People are looking to the end of the season but this spell we're in now - from the Fiorentina game last Thursday - is very difficult for players to handle.

"We have to speak to the players and make sure they are not getting to the point where they feel the strain.

"The pressure is there and at this stage of the season you have to show that you can handle it.

"The other night against Motherwell we showed a good reaction even late in the game. Being at home the crowd play a vital part at this stage of the season.

"It was apparent against Motherwell when they got behind us after half-time. There was a tremendous atmosphere generated and that helps all the players at a late stage in the game.

"It's no co-incidence that we had a better second half against Motherwell and more chances to get a goal."

Smith will have Lee McCulloch back in his plans today although the big Scot will probably start on the bench. Charlie Adam could start and Damarcus Beasley is in with a shout of playing after five months out with knee ligament damage