In the transfer market, Jim Goodwin believes Dundee United will be an “attractive proposition” as the Tannadice manager plans the team’s upcoming Premiership drive.
And Goodwin is adamant that the Tangerines will do better in the top tier.
United’s 1-0 victory over Ayr United practically sealed promotion, increasing their lead over Raith Rovers to six points with two games remaining and a margin in goal differential of 36.
While Goodwin has urged his players to relish a pressure-free end to the season, his own attention will swiftly turn to assembling a side ready for the step up.
He has already acknowledged that the Premiership is a “different kettle of fish” to the second tier but believes – contrary to last summer – that United are building from a position of strength.
Goodwin said, “Players want to play at the highest level possible, so recruitment was difficult last summer.”
“We targeted some of them because they had possibilities in the English league above or in more competitive leagues.
We are in a strong position right now, and since we are back in the Premiership, I think Dundee United is a really appealing offer.
“Our budget will be competitive, but we have balanced the books.
As is the case every year, there will be a large pool of talented players available in the summer. The key is to choose guys that fit the group’s values and character.
Talks about Tannadice stars’ contracts
Goodwin continued, emphasising the significance of winning the league quickly, saying, “We’ve already done a lot of hard work.”
“That’s not to say we won’t announce players in the next two weeks, but we’ve put ourselves in a great position to begin talks a little sooner than we otherwise could have.”
While already eyeing new recruits, a host of players are out of contract at Tannadice in the coming weeks. Their futures can soon be clarified.
Those include Scott McMann, Louis Moult, Kevin Holt, Ross Graham, David Wotherspoon and title-winning goal hero Chris Mochrie.
“We want to sit down and talk to some of the players in the group about extending,” Goodwin continued.
“I am aware of how much the guys love being here.
They have taken great pride in contributing to our accomplishments, and I believe they are aware that they play for one of Scotland’s biggest teams.
“There are numerous reasons to stay here.”
“We won’t make the same mistakes again,”
In fact, according to Goodwin, United’s size and prominence will guarantee that their ascent back to the top will benefit the Scottish game overall.
“It’s exciting for everyone associated with the club, but I also believe that the Scottish Premiership is a better place with clubs like Dundee United in it,” he continued.
I doubt anyone could argue against that.
Yes, every fan loves their own team, and all clubs have rivalries, but in the end, everyone is aware that Dundee United is one of the largest teams in the nation.
“This club belongs in the top division in terms of facilities, infrastructure, and fan base. We must learn from our past mistakes and make sure we don’t make the same mistakes twice. And we’re not going to.
