Courts keen to keep teenager on board at Utd

DUNDEE United boss Tam Courts has lavished praise on emerging defender Lewis Neilson as the teenager edged closer to signing a new deal at Tannadice.

Neilson, 18, made his first start since January against Motherwell on Saturday and turned in a fine showing as United claimed a key 1-0 victory in the race for Europe.

Courts readily admits the towering centre-half has been forced to show patience in recent months, particularly while watching Ross Graham grab his opportunity in the first team.

However, Courts is adamant Neilson remains a highly-prized prospect with a big future at Tannadice.

“There have been (contract) talks ongoing with Lewis this year,” said Courts.

“Lewis has had to be patient and wait for his opportunity.

“But he has made a number of appearances for an 18-year-old centre-back.

“We saw him at Celtic Park (1-0 defeat in January), he came off the bench against Hearts last month and started at the weekend.

“You can see the trajectory he is on. He is an exciting young talent.

“The talent is there and he is very advanced in terms of his physical stature.

“You saw on Saturday a boy who is keen to grab his opportunity at a crucial stage in the season.

“Ross Graham did the same. There is a clear pathway but it has to be earned.”

With the club also hopeful Ian Harkes will extend his stay, Courts added: “Ian has been one of our standout performers.

“He is very well liked within the group and is a really intelligent footballer.

“He is also at a brilliant age. If he was to commit to a new contract then I would see that as a really big breakthrough for Dundee United.”

Meanwhile, Courts has confirmed United remain in