It’s a good move for Scobbie – and a good move for United

Dundee United have confirmed the signing of Tam Scobbie from St Johnstone. We look at what United fans can expect from their new defender. Tam Scobbie to Dundee United... surprise? Possibly a bit of a surprise given talks had been taking place with regards to a new deal at St Johnstone, but not a great shock. It’s certainly not a shock that Ray McKinnon would want him.

Why’s that? Because he’s a reliable, versatile and experienced defender. McKinnon could do with a couple of them.

Scobbie started out as a left-back at Falkirk but is that his best position these days? I wouldn’t say so. He’s covered there and will do a decent job but he’s more suited in the middle now. That’s where Tommy Wright gave him most of his appearances last season (and there were actually plenty of them for all that

Scobbie isn’t thought of as a Saints regular). It will be interesting to hear McKinnon’s take on it because his need for a left-back is probably greater than for a centre-half.

A loss to Saints? Yes and no. Every squad needs guys like Tam Scobbie, and he has been a fine servant for five years, the highlight being the penalty he scored to defeat Luzern in the Europa League. But Saints are well covered for centre-backs.

With promising young defender Liam Gordon pushing for more game-time, many supporters will be happy if he gets more action next season as a result of this move.

All in all, this sounds like a good move for United and Scobbie? That sums it up pretty well. Scobbie is a dressing room leader who United fans should take to. He’ll never pull out of a tackle or put in half a shift. He’s basically exactly the sort you need to get out of the Championship.

New Dundee United signing Tam Scobbie.