Supporters group honour for Tommy

Lifelong fan Tommy Mckay has been made an honorary member of the Dundee United Supporters’ Foundation, writes Ian Roache.

Tommy, from Monifieth, lost his leg at the age of nine to bone cancer.

He found fame last November when a video of his incredible lobbed goal during a half-time challenge at United’s home game against Dunfermline went viral on the internet.

The spectacular chip over the keeper even won the SPFL’S goal of the month award.

Since then Tommy has helped raise the profile of amputee football in Scotland and he has been instrumental, along with the Dundee United Community Team, in setting up the first United amputee team.

Tommy’s year to remember was capped when he was picked for the Scotland amputee team’s first international fixture, against Holland in October.

A foundation statement said: “As the DUSF is a fan-run organisation we felt we should have a fan as our next honorary member so we are delighted that lifelong Arab Tommy Mckay has accepted our invitation.

“His ‘can-do’ attitude is a great inspiration to us all, and he has been a great ambassador and role model for all Arabs and the club.

“We are proud to have Tommy as our latest honorary member.”

Tommy, who claimed he was nearly lost for words on hearing the news, added: “I’ve never had such an honour in my life.

“I think the work that the foundation people are doing is essential to the future of our club, and I’d encourage all United fans to get in touch with them to find out more.

“I would love to take up the invitation even though to be amongst such esteemed company is something I don’t deserve.”

Other honorary members include legendary ex-players Finn Dossing, Willie Pettigrew and Billy Mckinlay, as well as the family of late director Derek Robertson.

Tommy Mckay: ‘can-do’ attitude an inspiration.