Former United star’s sights set on return to the top flight

Former Dundee United star Ryan Gauld admits he was in the form of his life before the coronavirus crisis halted football in Portugal.

The 24-year-old has emerged as a talisman for Farense this season, notching seven goals and one assist for second tier side in the seven fixtures prior to the enforced shutdown.

Gauld’s form has been pivotal in firing the Faro-based club to second spot in Liga Pro, just two points behind leaders Nacional and firmly in contention for promotion.

That could ultimately be a call made by the authorities, with the Portuguese league yet to decide whether the domestic campaign will be able to finish –and, if not, whether current standings will be honoured.

However, if it comes down to sporting merit, the former Tangerines and Hibernian playmaker firmly believes he’ll be playing in the top-flight next term.

He said: “This run of goals has never happened in my career before. I scored my first ever hat-trick against Viseu and it has been quite hard to explain. It is about being in the right place at the right time and having a lot of confidence.

“I’ll always try to score when I get the chance but the collective is more important. We need victories to achieve promotion.

“Farense might be in the second league, but it belongs in the Primeira League and we are committed to making the city’s dream come true. The people love their club and have an identity and passion which make this a special place to play.

“I know we have a strong group, in terms of quality and character, and I believe that will bring us a deserved promotion.”

Gauld has kickstarted his career with Farense in a way he was unable to at Hibs following his arrival in January 2019.

But his stint in Edinburgh was wrecked by fitness woes and dugout upheaval, with Paul Heckingbottom replacing the man who signed him, Neil Lennon.

Gauld, who made just six appearances for the Hibees. said: “It didn’t go well. I got injured and the club changed coaches.”

Ryan Gauld has scored seven goals for Farense so far this season.