Tangerines play waiting game in Mcclaren chase

Dundee United are prepared to play a waiting game in order to get the right manager, writes Ian Roache.

The Tangerines’ hunt for Robbie Neilson’s successor has been a 10-day rollercoaster ride, with former England manager Steve Mcclaren still the hot favourite to take charge at Tannadice.

He remains the number one candidate and it appears the Tangerines are prepared to give him another 24 hours at least in which to give them his answer.

United sporting director Tony Asghar interviewed Mcclaren on Monday, while SFA sporting director Malky Mackay, ex-united captain Jon Daly and former Hearts coach Austin Macphee were all spoken to at the weekend.

Tranmere Rovers boss Micky Mellon was also believed to have a chance but it is understood United have not approached his club looking for permission to contact him.

The United players are continuing the build up to the new Premiership season – exactly a month away – with full contact training as they patiently await news of an appointment.

With so much at stake, though, both Asghar and Us-based chairman Mark Ogren are determined to take as long as necessary in order to get the right man for the job. If Mcclaren does say yes he will help both United and his own reputation, according to former English FA managing director Adrian Bevington.

“It is an attractive proposition for Steve because you can build something there,” said Bevington. “It is an exciting time for Dundee United and it could be just the right move for Steve to bring players through.

“If people like Lawrence Shankland are going to be there next season, he will benefit from Steve’s coaching.

“It could be a mutually beneficial move for Steve and Dundee United.

“Steve has shown previously that he is prepared to travel – he has been to Germany and Holland – and Scottish football can be an attractive proposition,” added Bevington, who worked closely with Mcclaren in the England set-up.

“It is an opportunity to improve, rather than rebuild, your reputation.

“I could see him going in to Dundee United in the same way he went in to Twente Enschede, not one of the biggest clubs in Holland but still with a good pedigree and a rich history.

“United have had a difficult time but I think it is a great opportunity.”