Laudable ambition from Dundee owner

It is a remarkably popular pursuit for highly successful businessmen and women, but quite what drives such individuals to invest in a football club is not altogether clear.

Across Europe and indeed the world, there are countless examples of high net worth individuals sinking their cash into teams with no great track record of making money.

Whatever the reasons, it is clear the lure of sport is hard to resist.

Tim Keyes, owner of Dundee FC, admits his investment in the Dens Park outfit started life as a business venture.

Very quickly, however, he began to “live or die by how the club does”.

Thousands of local fans know exactly how he feels. While it may have cost him a bit more than he originally estimated — he now admits he may have been “naive” — a plan is in place and the club appears to be on a much more sure footing than in previous years.

Top of the wish list, of course, is a new stadium.

Mr Keyes clearly sees this as a vital part of his future plans and it is hard to envisage such a development as being anything other than good for the long-term future of both the club and indeed the city.

There are many hurdles to be cleared before his dreams can be realised, but it is refreshing to hear Mr Keyes speaking about his future association with Dundee with such enthusiasm and commitment.