Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
Mellon meets with approval of the fans
MICKY Mellon’s appointment as Dundee United manager has been given the seal of approval by the majority of the club’s fans – but has left supporters of his former club gutted.
The Paisley-born gaffer joins the Tangerines and replaces Robbie Neilson as the Tannadice boss.
Mellon has built up legend-status at Tranmere Rovers, having led the club to back-to-back promotions in recent years.
There was an outpouring of love for the former Rovers boss with fans paying tribute to the Scot.
One said: “Micky, you have cemented your place in all of our fans’ hearts and the history of our wonderful club. Thanks for the memories, gaffer.”
Another Tranmere supporter, referring to the club’s final victory before the coronavirus pandemic brought football to a halt, said: “My gaffer, only one Micky Mellon. Everyone one of us in the away end that night knew we were staying up and so did he.”
United fans, however, have been left intrigued by the appointment, which is Mellon’s first in Scottish football.
After coming through the youth set-up at Hearts, Mellon spent his entire career in England, racking up over 500 appearances as a midfielder for clubs like Bristol City, Blackpool and Burnley.
He would later go on to manage Fleetwood Town, Shrewsbury Town and finally Tranmere Rovers, gaining five promotions with three different clubs.
One United fan said: “Welcome to Tannadice, Micky Mellon, the tangerine army have your back. Hope you and the family settle in quickly.”
Another said: “Welcome aboard Micky, 100% behind you and the club.”
Mellon has already received backing from several big names in football, with Craig Levein saying he hoped the new gaffer, whom he came through the youth set-up at Hearts with, would do well.
Ex-Rangers midfielder and Dundee fan Charlie Adam also tweeted about the appointment and backed Mellon to succeed at Dundee United, saying: “They’re getting a good manager.”
He added: “He’ll know plenty about the Scottish game.”