NEY STOPPING LOEMBA NOW

YANNICK LOEMBA knows he’s a far cry from superstar Neymar – but that won’t stop the Dundee United new boy trying to be like the Brazilian ace.

Loemba is relishing his first start for United in today’s Championship opener against Dunfermline at Tannadice after joining from Turkish side Adana Demirspor.

The Congolese winger made an instant impact coming on as a sub in last week’s Betfred Cup win at Elgin so is itching to get them off to a flier.

Loemba said: “I admire a lot of players and I try to be a little bit – a very little bit – like Neymar.

“I do have quick feet and tricks. In the Premier League in England I would say I like Eden Hazard and he is a Belgian hero after the World Cup. I try to be as much like them as possible although I am not saying I’m of their standard. I am humble. I can learn from watching them.”

Loemba, who earned rave reviews for his trickery against Elgin, added: “I got a good feeling from that first game. It gave me energy and a desire to keep playing well for the team.”

Lee Ashcroft insists Dunfermline will be able to cope with friendly fire up against familiar faces Nicky Clark and Fraser Aird, who were at East End Park last season.

Ashcroft, who has been made Pars captain, said: “We’ll respect them but there’s no mates in the game when you’re out on the pitch.

“We know they’re good players but if we play the way we can I’m sure we can handle it and get the result that’s needed.”