‘financial havoc’ Ogren is upbeat

on recently, with the sad passing of Jim McLean, just reiterates the size of this club. You see that with one look at the stadium.

“And now the club is back in the top division after a long period out, it is about establishing ourselves and it’s exciting to be part of that.

“We are sitting sixth in the league in our first season back and, although there are areas where we want to do better and get better, I think that will come over time. If we can finish the season where we are now, then it will be a very successful one.”

Smith’s personal goals are similarly lofty, with the ex-Scotland

U/21 regular determined to prove he is one of the top full-backs in the league, having now illustrated that he can cut the mustard in the Premiership.

“The target has to be to improve all-round,” continued Smith.

“Show I am capable of playing at this level and, once established in the Premiership, it’s about looking to add assists and goals to your game as well as being defensively sound.

“That’s how you work your way up to being one of the top full-backs in the league – and that’s what everyone wants to do.

“You want to push yourself as much as possible.

“Once you are established at a club like Dundee United and show that you are one of the better teams in the league, then it can take you anywhere.”

Discussing the challenge of winning over new boss Micky Mellon in order to land an extension, Smith told DUTV: “When the new manager came in, it was just a case of proving I was good enough to retain my spot and be around.

“By getting my contract extended, I’ve shown that I am. Personally, I can be happy with how it’s gone.”

who is able to do so to join the Dundee United Supporters Foundation’.