Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
Experienced duo will miss cup-tie
WILLO Flood and Stewart Murdoch look set to miss out again when Dundee United head for Buckie Thistle in the Betfred Cup tonight.
Midfielders Flood and Murdoch, who manager Ray McKinnon now sees as a right-back, both picked up injuries during the pre-season build-up and missed the weekend opener when the Tangerines ran out 2-0 winners over Raith.
Of the two, Flood is the closer to fitness, but his lack of match practice means he is unlikely to be considered for this one. Sunday’s home tie with Cowdenbeath, though, could see him back i n action.
Murdoch, meanwhile, is unlikely t o see action before the derby at Dundee at the end of the month.
“It’s nothing major with either of them and in a lot of ways it’s a hangover from last season finishing so late, but we won’t be taking any chances with anyone who isn’t 100% fit,” said boss Ray McKinnon.
While he was happy with his new-look team’s display against Raith, the gaffer will make changes for tonight.
He’s already indicated he wants to have a look at new goalkeeper Harry Lewis and the 19-year-old loan man from Southampton has been pencilled in to start. There will also be a few changes in the outfield position.
“We still have players needing game time and that will be a factor i n my selection,” he confirmed.
What that doesn’t mean is United are taking their Highland League opponents lightly. Ray is expecting a competitive 90 minutes and will stress to his players their approach must be spot on.
“I’ve reports on Buckie and I know they are capable of giving us a tough game. It’s a tight pitch up there and they use it well.”