Mellon in isolation as United get set for Livingston

DUNDEE United coach Thomas Courts insists he is not fazed by his dramatic “promotion” at the coronavirus-stricken club.

Courts, the academy head of tactical performance at Tannadice, has been placed in emergency charge of training and preparations for tomorrow’s match against Livingston following the news that the entire first-team coaching staff, including manger Micky Mellon, have gone into self-isolation.

That dramatic move followed the revelation that three of United’s backroom team had tested positive for the virus.

If Courts, who is a former Kelty Hearts boss, is feeling daunted by the possibility of taking the team against first Livingston away tomorrow then Rangers at home the following weekend, then he is doing a good job of hiding it.

He said: “The modern coaching environment is so fluid just now, with all the protocols, governance and guidelines, that you need to be agile and flexible in dealing with any situation that develops.

“At this moment in time the gaffer would probably want me to be focused on a daily basis.

“We are speaking every six hours and I have already spoken to him twice today.

“I will take training today and if Saturday is required we will just take that in our stride.

“I feel like I have a good understanding of how I need to represent the gaffer.

“I have the details that the players need to see and hear out on the training pitch.

“He (Mellon) has been updated at regular intervals and seems quite content just now.

“Obviously, we are in unprecedented times – that’s almost become a bit of cliche,” added Courts.

“I think there has not been time for me to think of any personal objectives. It is really just up to me to make sure the gaffer is supported and the players are clear what is expected of them. “I don’t feel fazed at all.

“I’m just excited to have the opportunity to play a bigger role for the club.”

In a statement issued just before Courts fulfilled United’s media duties, the club confirmed the coronavirus complications.

They said: “Following recent positive Covid-19 tests for nonplaying staff and ahead of further discussions with the Scottish FA and Tayside Health Board, we have taken the precautionary decision to ask all our first-team coaching staff to self-isolate.

“Academy head of tactical performance coach Thomas Courts and other academy staff will guide Friday’s training session.

“Pending further discussions with the Scottish FA and Tayside Health Board, we will make no further comment at this time.”

Courts revealed that he will rely heavily on the advice and guidance of the senior players, led by captain Mark Reynolds.

Courts added: “Every team looks to their senior players for that leadership and, from the first session I took to the conversations we have had with the players, I have felt really well supported by the senior pros.

“It has felt like a seamless transition because we have a first-class group of boys.”

In a stroke of luck for United, Courts revealed he had been

to be in Thomas Courts is set charge of United at Livi.