Football Season Guide

Dundee United exceeded expectations last season in their first campaign back in the Premiership as they finished comfortably in the top six, snatching fourth place from Aberdeen in a dramatic final day. Jim Goodwin’s side had been expected to struggle last term but were not out of the top half of the table after the opening fortnight of the season. Still, they struggled against the best sides in the league, notably losing four of five after the league split. United were far from spectacular, scoring only 45 goals, which was the joint-lowest figure among teams outside of the relegation spots. They did, however, have a solid defensive core that allowed them to punch above their weight. Despite last season’s success, an overhaul has taken place, with a large squad significantly cut down in numbers. Some of the departures have been unwelcome, most notable that of top scorer Sam Dalby, who was essential last term. Similarly, losing first-choice keeper Jack Walton is another heavy blow. Goodwin has in typically pragmatic style, sought to shore up the defensive side of things first and foremost. Goalkeeper Yevgeniy Kurcherenko has been recruited along with centre-backs Iurie Iovu and Bert Esselink as well as Dario Naamo. None of these players have any experience in British football, which is a gamble that is a common theme among the arrivals, making United’s effectiveness difficult to judge. Indeed, the defence as a whole looks short of numbers and will likely be bolstered. In midfield, Panutche Camara joins from Crawley to buck that trend and could partner Issac Pappoe at the heart of the field. United will hope for both Vicko Sevelj, whose versatility was key last season, and Craig Sibbald can remain fit here as depth looks questionable. Similarly, there are questions for United going forward. Kristijan Trapanovski started last season in promising style before fading and United need him to come good. Similarly, new arrival Amar Fatah from Troyes is likely to be leaned on. Replacing Dalby in attack, however, promised to be a very difficult task. Jort van der Sande did not look up to it last season so Zachary Sapsford has been recruited from Australian football to wear the No.9 jersey. A striker who has 10 A-League goals in 42 matches is unlikely to cut the mustard, though he did score in the club's first European outing of the season.