‘I’ve felt that buzz again’ Ross to United

New Dundee United manager says he turned down offers from England

JACK ROSS admits he had offers from Scotland and England after departing Hibernian last year – but the 46-yearold was waiting for an opportunity that excited him before getting back into management.

The former Hibernian, Sunderland and St Mirren boss was yesterday appointed as head coach of Dundee United on a two-year deal, following Tam Courts’ decision to join Hungarian outfit Honved.

Ross said that he has enjoyed his spell away from the game but the chance to take the reins of a team with as rich a history as United meant the deal was too good to turn down.

The newly-appointed coach accepts that expectations amongst the club’s fans will be high after the team recorded a fourth-placed finish in the cinch Premiership last term, and he is looking forward to doing his utmost to meet them.

“I’ve had a spell out of management and was happy to have a break,” Ross told the club’s website.

“I’ve had offers from Scotland, England and overseas to return to work but I haven’t had that real buzz of excitement that you need to go in and do a good job. In all the conversations I’ve had with the club, I’ve felt that buzz and excitement. I firmly believe I’ve been given a fantastic opportunity at a terrific football club.

“What we did last year was brilliant, but the challenge is to deliver consistent success to the club.

“There’s a historical aspect to this too. I grew up with Scottish football and I understand Dundee United’s historical standing in the game.

“It’s already a big club but the potential is there for it to continue growing. I’ve got to deliver success to meet those expectations.

“But part of the attraction for me is the fact there is big expectation from the fans. That’s something I’ve had at a lot my previous clubs. It’s something I’ll embrace.”

United sporting director Tony Asghar hailed the appointment as he outlined his vision for the next few years for the Tannadice club.

He added: “Jack Ross is one of the best managers we could have brought to the club. We’re delighted he’s here.

“He’s vastly experienced, he knows how to plan and build a squad.

“We have been working through a strategic plan for the last three and half years and this is an exciting part of that journey.”

What we did last year was brilliant, but the challenge is to deliver consistent success