Fraser backs United fans for key role

Dundee United midfielder Scott Fraser is backing the supporters to play a significant role in the club’s Championship challenge.

United fans suffered agony after agony last season as their team was relegated without any real fight but they have stayed loyal over the summer.

The current season ticket total stands at a very healthy 4,375 and the attendance for Sunday’s Betfred Cup win over Dunfermline, which was not covered by season books and was televised live, was almost 5,000.

Those numbers have been noticed by the grateful United players, who now hope to repay that faith by getting back up to the Premiership at the first time of asking.

“The fans are massive for us,” said Fraser, whose terrific free-kick made it 2-0 against the Pars to take the Tangerines into the last 16.

“The players have been paying attention and we know the amount of season tickets sold.

“This game has a buzz about it. Understandably, there has been a bit of banter in training,” said Easton.

“I could be up against guys like Sterling or Navas, while we have been slagging big Ando a lot. We have been saying that he is old school so he should just take Aguero out of the game!

“Seriously, though, it will be a great test and hopefully we will go down there and play a bit ourselves.

“It’s exciting for us and we will get a chance to see how Pep Guardiola’s team is shaping up before they get started.

“There is no pressure on us because it is behind closed doors but let’s just say it will a good wee test before we start the league season against Aberdeen on Sunday.

“We will be playing against some of the best before going into that game and then we have the cup match with Hearts.

“So there is no way we will get away with anything less than 100% against City.

“Even if they aren’t playing full out they are such good players that we will have to be on our mettle or we will get turned over. So we will have to step it up.”

Wright will take his 20strong squad down to England after training today, with Keith Watson and Chris Millar out injured.

The McDiarmid gaffer is keen to see what his men can do against such top-class opposition.

Wright said: “It’s a great opportunity for us and it doesn’t really matter who they play. They have asked that we definitely bring our first team and we certainly will do that.

“It’s a part of their preparation and it’s a good way to finish off our preparation heading into the league campaign.

“Wednesday is normally a harder day for us anyway so, in terms of physical exertion, it will have no impact on Sunday’s game. I think it will give the players a lift to go and be on the same pitch as some of the best players in the world.”

Wright revealed David Wotherspoon will start against City.

Sergio Aguero will take on St Johnstone’s defence today.