Patience key to my future with United: N’Koyi

Striker desperate to nail down regular starting place in McKinnon’s side

Dundee United striker Patrick N’Koyi has promised he is ready to contribute to the cause after a frustrating start to his time at Tannadice.

The Congolese-Dutchman was urged by manager Ray McKinnon to “kick on” after his two goals secured the Tangerines a win over Cowdenbeath on Tuesday at Tannadice and with it safe passage into today’s Irn-Bru Cup second round draw.

N’Koyi featured in the Betfred Cup group games against Raith Rovers and Buckie Thistle last month before suffering a muscle injury.

His return was delayed longer than he had hoped but he was back with a bang as he netted with a close-range shot and header against the Blue Brazil.

The frontman would love to be considered for another start against Brechin City at home in the Championship – the competition that really matters to United – on Saturday but he knows that he may have to wait his turn and then

“I hope to challenge for a regular place now. I have to work hard every day and show the coach in training that I am ready

take his opportunity when it comes along.

N’Koyi said: “It was great to get my first two goals for the club.

“We didn’t play so good in the first half but the second was a little bit better.

“We made our play a little bit different because we needed more in order to win the game.

“With the injury and not scoring it has been frustrating for me but I hope with that match and that win behind me that I can move forward now.

“It was good for my confidence and for the other guys who have not been playing so much. For a striker, it is always important to score goals and I have to thank Scott (Fraser) and James (Keatings) for their passes to me.

“It is always difficult to get a goal in matches like that one because you are playing against, with all respect, a team from a lower league.

“As the bigger team there is always the risk that you can play badly or if you win then that’s just considered normal. I hope to challenge for a regular place now.

“I have to work hard every day and show the coach in training that I am ready. I have not played enough games because I was not fit but I am 100% now and just need matches.

“I want to play on Saturday but I have to be realistic and also be patient.

“In football, things can go so quickly so you have to be ready if you get your opportunity.”

SNS. Patrick N’Koyi’s confidence is sky high after his double against Cowdenbeath on Tuesday.