Boss McKinnon wary of Livi Lions’ roar as he plots caging them

Hopkins’ men must be given respect, says United gaffer

Livingston may have only come back up to the Championship after winning promotion last season but Dundee United boss Ray McKinnon will not be taking anything for granted when his side visit Almondvale tomorrow.

The west Lothian outfit have 15 points on board already – just two less than United – and on Wednesday their boss David Hopkin was named Ladbrokes Championship Manager of the Month for September.

United are still buoyed by their last two league wins over Morton and Dunfermline, but McKinnon has done his homework on the West Lothian outfit and knows his players can expect a difficult encounter.

The manager said: “Livi have done really well. We have had them watched a few times and they play a back five with big, solid laddies.

“They have their system and they are sticking to it so it will be a really tough game.

“Livi are used to winning matches after being promoted last season and are a big threat from set-pieces.

“I am not surprised they are up there and they will be a real handful on Saturday.

“But there are no easy games in this league and we will be ready for it.”

With only Scott Fraser currently out injured, McKinnon admits he has an embarrassment of riches to choose from for the Livi game.

He said: “We have an 18-man squad that’s looking pretty good when everyone is fit.

“I tell the players if they are in the team and doing well, they keep their place.

“Injuries and suspensions can be unfortunate but if you miss out and someone comes in and does well, that’s just the way it is.”

Livi are used to winning matches after being promoted last season and are a big threat from set-pieces. RAY MCKINNON

● Dundee United’s Irn-Bru Cup quarter-final against Crusaders will take place on Saturday November 11, kick-off 1pm.

That has meant United’s league game against Falkirk has been put back to Sunday November 19.

Raith Rovers’ tie at Dumbarton will kick-off at 3pm on the 11th.

Scott Fraser, right, is the only player missing through injury for United.