The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
Banks example
Former United midfielder’s move to Eagles can help inspire kids.
The departure of Scott Banks from Dundee United to Crystal Palace is an example of what can be achieved by young players at Tannadice, according to assistant head coach Gordon Forrest.
The midfielder clinched his big move to the English Premiership this week and there is no bitterness in the United camp at a potential star leaving before establishing himself in the first team.
“It’s fantastic for the kid and we wish him all the best,” said Forrest.
“He’s chosen the move for his career and now it’s up to him to learn his trade at Crystal Palace. It will be interesting to see how he develops.
“It shows that you’re always getting watched. It’s important that young players know that, no matter what age you are.
“I could see straight away when I came into the club that he had ability.
“There are a lot of good aspects to his game but he’s still got a lot to learn.
“As coaches we’ve stayed out of what was happening but it’s come to this window and it’s been sorted out.”
Another player who has left the club is Sam Stanton. The former Hibs midfielder is off to America’s second tier with Phoenix Rising.
“For Sam it’s a fantastic opportunity,” said Forrest.
“He’s made a big contribution for us. He recently went past 100 games here and he was very popular in the dressing room.
“I’ve been out there, so I know what sort of adventure he’s got in front of him.”
Forrest has been very impressed with new signing Dillon Powers after he travelled in the opposite direction to Stanton.
“He’s a different type of player to Sam, even though they play in a similar position,” he said.
“He’s a good addition to the squad and he’s already made important contributions in the two games he has played. We’re still trying to build up his match fitness, which will come.
“You just need to look at his background to see he’s a top player. He’s played over 150 games in the MLS. He fancied a new challenge and it’s fantastic for us.”
Tomorrow’s game against Morton is sandwiched between cup clashes with Hibs but focus won’t be a problem, according to Forrest.
“We’ve had a challenge in the cup but it’s really important we keep winning in the league,” he said.
“We want to keep our home record going. Nobody is thinking about Hibs.
“It’s a game-by-game mentality that the players have bought into – no matter how many points we’re ahead.
“The league is the most important thing for us.”
Meanwhile, Osman Sow, who has scored three goals in two reserve games, could soon get his first-team chance.
“It’s been great to have Osman back,” said Forrest.
“He’s now had a run of good training sessions. It’s a headache for the manager but a good headache. He gives us a different option.
“We know how good a player he is. We see him day in, day out. He’s fit and available for selection.”
● United full-back Sam Wardrop, who ended nearly a year out with a knee injury last week, has headed to Dumbarton on loan for the second half of the season.
The 21-year-old former Celtic defender moved to Tannadice in the summer of 2018 but has made only six appearances.
However, Wardrop played for 60 minutes in a 7-0 reserve win over Queen of the South last week and then got 90 minutes on Tuesday against Dunfermline.