Hard feelings Road sacking

than to make any grand predictions regarding longevity.

“You become more hardened to the fact that it’s difficult to think too far ahead,” he acknowledged.

“It’s about controlling what’s controllable; shape what you want to do and keep improving players and staff.

“If you do that then you give yourself a chance to succeed.”

The Tangerines secured fourth place in the Premiership last term, securing European qualification for the first time in a decade.

It sets a lofty benchmark ahead of the coming campaign, albeit the somewhat stodgy football on show last term – scoring 37 times in 38 league matches – does provide ample room for stylistic improvement.

Ross will also be seeking to remedy disappointing cup runs under Tam Courts.

“I don’t like treading water,” added Ross.

“The biggest thing about this job was the potential to improve and get better.

“The challenge is to deliver a consistent period of being in that (high) area of the table and go deep into cup competitions, giving ourselves a chance to win them.

“There are a number of clubs who will feel the same – but I do think that Dundee United has the ability to gatecrash that group.”

as the new Dundee United manager is unveiled to the press for the first time.