Anderson: Scobbie is the real deal

DUNDEE United haven’t got just one player in Tam Scobbie — they’ve got three according to St Johnstone skipper Steven Anderson.

The former Falkirk and Scotland U/19 and U/21 player spent most of his five years with Saints at left-back but also filled in as a central defender and in midfield.

And Ando feels Tam can still fill in all three positions with ease.

In fact, given his versatility, the St Johnstone stalwart will be surprised if United don’t utilise him in more than one role.

“Tam has been excellent for us and he will be excellent for United, too,” said Anderson.

“He’s a solid, reliable defender and a great professional.

“He had bad injuries when he was with us but worked so hard to get back fit again.

“That’s another of Tam’s attributes, he’s a grafter. He works really hard on the training pitch and in games.

“He’s one of the hardest working footballers I’ve come across. He gets his head down and works away.

“He’s also a great lad, too, brilliant in the dressing-room. He’s a very good friend and I’ll miss him being around.

“In fact, all the players at Saints are gutted he’s no longer with us. Great on and off the park, he is very popular as well a being a player of real quality.

“Ray McKinnon has made a very shrewd signing. Tam is just the type of player United need to get them back into the Premiership.

“Having played in the Championship with Saints I know what is needed to make the step up and Tam does, too.

“United have some good young players and Tam can be a big help to them on and off the park.

“In his career, he has grown from a promising young defender into an experienced professional, so he’s come the course.

“He’s a good player who can play in different positions, he’s an organiser, a leader and a good guy to have about the place. When it comes to underestimated players, Tam is up there.”

Twenty-nine-year-old Scobbie