It’s easy to score Shanks
Micky Mellon has backed Lawrence Shankland to get back among the goals – if he starts being easier on himself.
The Dundee United star hit the bar and was denied by a great save from Joe Lewis and a last-gasp Ash Taylor block in yesterday’s stalemate with Aberdeen.
Shankland has only scored three times this season but boss Mellon expects the Scotland striker’s normal prolific service to resume.
He said: “Lawrence had the bit between his teeth today. He looked more involved and more refreshed and determined.
“He’s a cracking lad, very honest. He wears the weight of expectation on himself but he’s got to get rid of that.”
Mellon was pleased with the point at Pittodrie as United bounced back from
their 3- 0 defeat to Celtic on Wednesday.
He said: “We were all disappointed that we were below our levels against Celtic and were determined to hit those levels against Aberdeen.
“It was a really tough, hard-fought game from two honest teams.
“We certainly played our part in it. We try to win every game but it was hard fought, with two sets of players going for victory.”
Mellon was al so delighted with youngsters Lewis Neilson, thrown in when Ryan Edwards got injured in the warm-up, and Louis Appere
He added: “A big part of our recruitment is the academy. When we get opportunities to stick them in, we don’t hesitate.
“We try to prepare them mentally and physically so they can come in and do what Lewis did today. I thought he was fantastic.
“And so was Louis Appere. He led the line well with Shankland.”