The Dens Park pitch has been deemed playable ahead of this weekend's scheduled game between Dundee and Motherwell.

It emerged earlier today that Saturday's match may well be ordered to move venue by the SPFL should the hosts not be able to get the game on due to their ongoing pitch issues.

Four Premiership matches have been postponed at Dens this season due to the drainage problem, with the latest coming a little over two weeks ago against Rangers.

That match is due to be played next midweek on Wednesday, April 10 - and that too is said to be under threat of being moved if the surface doesn't hold up over some extreme rainy conditions in the coming days.

But after a pitch inspection carried out by a category one referee today, Dundee states their pitch is playable ahead of their first encounter of the double-header at Dens.

The surface is currently entirely covered by covers, that were reportedly dropped off by Celtic, who came to the club's aid.

A Dundee statement reads: "Ahead of Saturday’s cinch Premiership fixture against Motherwell at The Scot Foam Stadium, Dundee Football Club can confirm that the pitch is playable.

"A category one referee inspected the pitch on Thursday afternoon and stated the pitch was playable at the time of inspection. This is the result of the hard work put in from the club staff and a range of contractors.

"The club are aware that there is further rain forecast for tomorrow and Saturday morning and therefore the full pitch has been covered with rain covers for that period. Due to the weather forecast a precautionary pitch inspection has been scheduled for Saturday morning to ensure the pitch is in the same condition as it currently is.

"We look forward to seeing a large Dundee support out in force on Saturday to get right behind The Dee in this important match."

READ MORE: Dundee respond to claims Motherwell match could be moved stadium

A statement from Motherwell read: "Dundee have held a precautionary pitch inspection at Dens Park this afternoon and at present time, the pitch has passed that inspection.

"Rain covers are now going on the pitch to try and limit water onto the playing surface. It is likely the covers will stay down on the pitch until Saturday morning. Depending on the weather, we expect a further pitch inspection to be arranged on Saturday morning.

"Updates will be communicated to supporters as soon as we receive them from Dundee."