‘Shankland is our star man but it’s been a team effort’

clear at the summit, Butcher admits it’s been an enjoyable ride and one they are keen to wrap up as soon as possible.

As the day they can clinch the title draws ever closer, the defender-cum-midfielder insists they are used to living up to the big occasion.

“We’ve enjoyed every big game we’ve had this season,” he added.

“Whether it’s derbies or games where it’s really mattered like last Friday against Inverness, the boys have embraced the atmosphere and thrive off it.

“Even the cup games, we’ve enjoyed them and dealt with the big occasions over the season, so we’ll look forward to that day.

“We want to win it as quickly as possible because we want to enjoy it. We’ve earned the right to do that because of our performances over the whole season.”

And the first of three games in a week comes tomorrow as they call in to face Dunfermline at East End

Park, a clash Butcher is expecting to be as difficult as ever.

“Three games in a week is good for us, we enjoy that.

“It’s a tough place to go and they’re a good attacking team.

“They’ve got good forward players but it’s also a big pitch and that suits us.

“We like to make the pitch as big as we can and it’s a nice place to play.

“We’ll bring a good crowd down, too, which is a bonus.”

Of his own performances this term, Butcher has been pleased and delighted to captain the side of late but admits the overall goal of promotion would be satisfaction enough for his efforts.

“I think I’ve had an all-round good season but, ultimately, it’s about the team.

“Coming here, even in January last season, it was all about promotion and if we can do that it’s going to be the main satisfaction for me.”

Lawrence Shankland has been on fire for Dundee United this season.