Time finally runs out on Laszlo as United wield axe

Robbie Neilson has emerged as the front-runner to take over from sacked Csaba Laszlo at crisis-club Dundee United, writes Euan Mcarthur.

Former United defender Neilson is a leading contender after Tannadice chairman Mike Martin moved to axe beleaguered boss Laszlo in the wake of Saturday’s embarrassing 5-1 home defeat by Ross County, after which the Hungarian came in for a torrent of abuse from the exasperated home support.

Laszlo’s 11-month spell in the United dug-out was nothing short of disastrous after missing out on promotion

back to the top-flight via the Premiership play-off semifinal against Livingston in May, and the rout by County left them trailing top-of-thetable Ayr United by five points.

There were growing fears in the boardroom at Tannadice that continuing with Laszlo, pictured, would kill United’s promotion dream, so Martin yesterday acted.

“I would like to thank Csaba for the considerable commitment he showed during his time at Dundee United and for his contribution to improving the underpinning football structure at the club.

“We wish him all the best for the future. I can also confirm that Laurie Ellis has taken interim management responsibility for the team.”

Now United are turning their attention to Neilson – like Laszlo, a former Hearts manager – to try and get their title bid back on track.

The 38-year-old, who had a spell at Tannadice as a player from 2011-2012, left his post at English League One outfit MK Dons in January. Before heading south, he successfully managed Hearts for two seasons and won the Scottish Championship title in his first season in 2014. Other names in the frame include Jim Mcintyre, John Hughes and John Robertson. Ellis will take charge of Saturday’s vital league match against Ayr United at Somerset Park.