Ray is eyeing Dutch double

DUNDEE United boss Ray McKinnon could go double Dutch with his team selection for Saturday’s Championship clash with Dumbarton.

Ray will have the option of playing both Patrick N’Koyi and Jordie Briels against the Sons and might use it.

Striker N’Koyi has been working hard on his fitness since joining United after pre-season had started and then being hampered by injury.

But the manager was happy with his fitness in the Irn-Bru Cup win over Alloa last weekend and his work in the final third of the pitch.

“Patrick is definitely close,” said Ray. “I think he might give us a wee surprise and he might play Saturday in a two up front.

“Because of injuries, we haven’t always had that option so far and it’s been a bit frustrating.

“He’s good around the box. He has a l anguid running style but he i s strong and he gives us something a bit different.

“He’s shown he can score goals. He also set up a good goal fo r Pa u l McMullan last week.

“He has done OK so far and I think he will get his chance sooner than later.”

Midfielder Briels is also in the manager’s thoughts.

He’s been missing since getting hurt l ate i n the Irn-Bru first-round cup win over Cowdenbeath.

But he’s been back in full training this week and is set to make t he squad f or Saturday.

“We’ve had a few with injuries and Jordie was one of them,” said the gaffer.

“It’s good to have him back because he covers a lot of ground in the middle of the park and gives us energy there.

“He’s a player who i s going to get a lot of game time for us over the course of the season.”

Dundee United midfielder Jordie Briels.