Asghar is eager for Dundee in top flight

DUNDEE UNITED sporting director Tony Asghar would be delighted to see city rivals Dundee join them in a revamped top flight.

The Tannadice club were crowned Ladbrokes Championship winners with a 14-point lead and eight games outstanding when the SPFL’s controversial vote brought an end to the season.

Robbie Neilson’s team will compete in the Premiership in 2020/21 after a four-year absence and reconstruction talks may yet dictate that one or more rivals from the second tier go up with them.

An expansion to 14, sparing Hearts relegation, would likely create a slot for runners-up Inverness Caley Thistle.

If a 16-team plan is floated in the imminent task force discussions then that brings Ayr United and the Dens

Park club, whose U-turn on the vote waved through the SPFL resolution, into the picture.

Whatever the precise eventual make-up of the divisions, Asghar admitted both he and chairman Mark Ogren were supportive of measures designed to limit the damage to relegated outfits.

Asghar said: ‘All along, the first preference of myself, Mark, Mal (Brannigan, managing director) and Robbie was to finish the league.

‘However, we looked at what was happening and it was clear we didn’t need to get involved in discussions with other clubs.

‘We were at the top of the league all season and feel that there’s a fairness in us being handed the title.

‘It wasn’t the best, however, that other clubs had to be penalised for something outwith their control. I have real sympathy for them and I would look to agree to anything that was beneficial to these clubs.

‘The chairman definitely has the idea of looking at any form of league reconstruction if it makes sure that most clubs do not lose out.

‘Our derbies against Dundee were fantastic. They were great games and fantastically supported by both clubs.

‘I would love Dundee to be in the same league as us because I think it brings something to the whole city.

‘I don’t know what is going to happen but I would certainly welcome them in the top flight with us, however they can get there.

‘Whether that is through winning promotion next year or reconstruction, I would personally like that.’