Kerr has animal instinct
Neil McCann insists Kerr Waddell is Dundee’s ‘animal’ defender – and wi l l be hungry to spit out Dundee United in Wednesday’s Betfred Cup clash.
The 19-year-old centre- back has caught McCann’s eye since being handed his big break and has wasted no time in making his presence felt.
Teenager Waddell has quickly earned a reputation for h is no - nonsense approach and his Dark Blues manager loves his raw aggression which he’s convinced will come to the fore against the Tangerines.
McCann said: “Kerr has been exceptional. He’s a brilliant young man.
“He’s so well-mannered off the pitch.
“But out there he’s an animal, l ike a dif ferent person almost.
“That’s why he’s in the team because he’s so aggressive and that’s how I want all my defenders to be.
“You have to remember he’s still only a kid and has only really been playing bounce games as well as Under-20 matches.
“Then, all of a sudden, he’s thrown into a Dundee derby in front of nearly 11,000 supporters live on TV.
“Sometimes in a big game like last Sunday, the nervous energy which is there can affect a youngster and his performance.
“But Kerr revelled in it which tells you all you need to know.
“He’s in there on merit. Kerr has earned the right to play in the team and in big derbies like we’ve seen.”
McCann is rel ishing United’s quick-fire return visit t o De n s for Wednesday’s TV showdown and knows a cup run could spark their season.
He said: “It’s a great one to look forward to.
“The first game was a good advert for Scottish football and it should be another big atmosphere.
“Derby games are always special and a run in the cup can have positive spin-offs.”