New deal for former Celt

Former Celt Jackie McNamara has been given a contract extension by Dundee United keeping him at the club until 2017.

McNamara replaced Peter Houston just over a year ago and started his Tannadice career with a 3-0 win over Sevco in the Scottish Cup before narrowly losing out to Celtic in the semi-final of the competition.

Despite losing key players like Willo Flood and Johnny Russell, United have continued to impress this season with McNamara’s faith in the clubs young players being rewarded.

After signing his new deal the Tannadice boss said: “I am enjoying the job more than ever. My relationship with the Board of Directors and the Chairman is the strongest I have experienced in football and working with the quality players available to me at Dundee United makes the job enjoyable.

“The supporters are excellent and I continue to have a great relationship with them. Signing this extension is one of the easiest decisions I have made as Manager.

“I am proud to be Dundee United’s Manager and I see great potential at the Club. We have made a lot of progress in the first year here but can achieve a lot more and my desire to take Dundee United to a higher level is my motivation each day.”

United chairman Stephen Thompson added: “I am delighted to announce Jackie has extended his stay at Dundee United. The Board is excited by the job that Jackie has been doing and his desire to build strong foundations is in line with how we see the Club progressing.

“His commitment to developing young players and giving them the chance to prove themselves on the park is creating positivity for the future and, importantly, entertaining the fans.

“Some of the football this season has been sensational and United supporters have shown hunger for his philosophy by buying half season tickets in record numbers and creating a positive atmosphere at Tannadice on match days.”