Chairman Martin backs Laszlo to lead United into new Championship campaign despite Betfred Cup exit

Dundee United chairman Mike Martin has given manager Csaba Laszlo his full backing ahead of the start of the crucial Championship campaign.

Martin’s support comes despite the club’s shock exit from the Betfred Cup which has left many supporters wondering whether the Hungarian would survive to lead them in their push for promotion.

Laszlo, 54, took over from former manager Ray Mckinnon in November when United were vying with St Mirren for the title before a collapse saw them ultimately finish third before losing to newlypromoted Livingston in the play-offs.

But Martin, who took over the Tannadice helm in March, has re-iterated his support for Laszlo ahead of the Tangerines’ opening league clash at home to Dunfermline on Saturday.

Martin said: “Absolutely. I said at the end of last season that Csaba was going to lead our campaign this year. We have worked with him over the last 11 weeks putting together his squad and his coaching staff, as well as putting in place the other elements of the infrastructure that he needs to execute his job properly.

“We were very disappointed with the results in the cup, to be honest. Every competition and every match we go into, we want to win. Although it does come very early in the season with not much of a pre-season behind you, it is the same for all clubs.”