From jaws of habit to break

dropped from winning positions in those eight games.

That is more than twice as many as any other side, with Dundee (seven), Hibernian and St Mirren (both six) coming next

It should, however, be noted that many teams – particularly those at the wrong end of the table – would struggle to get near United’s tally because they have not found themselves in winning positions with the same regularity. It is a maddening pattern for watching fans and, while his tone can rarely be described as anything other than measured, one Courts is clearly aware of.

The Tannadice gaffer has sought to clarify that he is not telling his players to sit back and protect slender advantages. He has repeatedly lamented a failure to go for the jugular and put games to bed.

Following defeat against the

Jambos, he rued an inability to “be brave, fearless, take some risks” and “push home our authority”.

So, is the issue mental? Tactical? A self-fulfilling prophecy as history repeats? Asked directly why the Tangerines find it so tough to press home an advantage, Courts added: “That’s the million dollar question”.

As the race for Europe hots up, finding an answer has become a pressing priority.

attentions of Charlie Mulgrew, as United see another game slip away from a winning position.