United loan move for ex-Killie striker

SIGNING: Laszlo seals deal to bring Slater north from Colchester

Csaba Laszlo has fired the starting gun for what is expected to be a busy transfer window for Dundee United with the loan signing of Craig Slater.

The former Scotland under-21 international, now 23, made his name with Kilmarnock. While at Rugby Park he made 85 appearances, scoring nine goals.

He joined Colchester United in 2016 and his United loan from there will last until the end of the season, when his contract expires.

Aberdeen were keen on Slater when he quit Killie after helping them win their play-off against Falkirk but he chose to head south rather than north.

He started his career with St Mirren, the club he will be looking to get the better of in the Championship title race.

Slater’s first season with Colchester was reasonably successful before it was cut short in February and injury has held him back this term as well.

He has only played four times in the league, on each occasion from the bench.

Slater has represented Scotland at U 16, U 17 and U19 levels as well as making 10 appearances for the U21s.

Midfield was an obvious area of the United team needing urgent attention for Laszlo given the fact that Fraser Fyvie and Scott Fraser are both out for the season.

At least two further signings are expected before January is over.