Tannadice chief wants more talks with Mellon
DUNDEE United last night made a formal approach for Tranmere’s Micky Mellon as they continue their hunt for a new manager.
Sportsmail understands the English club have granted permission for the 48-year-old to hold further talks with Tannadice sporting director Tony Ashgar. Born in Paisley, Mellon has spent his entire playing and managerial career south of the border. The former Fleetwood, Barnsley and Shrewsbury boss joined Tranmere in 2016 and led their return to England’s senior ranks two years later. He then made it back-toback promotions by winning a place in League One via the play-offs. The Birkenhead side were relegated by a tiny margin on a points-per-game basis after last season was halted due to coronavirus, but had won their three matches prior to lockdown. Mellon is now a leading contender to replace Robbie Neilson after Steve McClaren withdrew from consideration and interest in Malky Mackay appeared to cool.
Ashgar, however, says United will continue to take their time and have a number of candidates still in the frame. ‘We’ve spoken to people — some in jobs, some not — and we’ve still got more to speak to,’ he told BBC Scotland. ‘Some are still involved in games just now, so we have to be respectful of that, but we’ll get through everyone then take an overview. ‘There’s no real rush. It has to be the right fit for the players, the fans and the club. ‘We’ve taken our time and looked at different types of coaches and managers and we’re open to how that manager works as long as he fits in with what we want to do.’