Defender Robson is trusting in a new integrity

Unity will give Dundee United strength when they kick-off tonight’s derby with Dundee at Dens Park, according to Arabs defender Jamie Robson.

Robson believes players, directors, management, staff and supporters are all united under the new regime led by owner Mark Ogren and manager Robbie

Neilson. If anyone should know how different things feel now compared to previous years then it is Robson.

Despite being only 21, he is the club’s longest-serving player, having signed his first professional form with the Arabs back in the summer of 2014. He made his debut the following year.

The walk up Tannadice Street to Dens Park promises to be an enjoyable one for Robson and his colleagues, who can expect nothing but encouragement from the United fans who will no doubt join them on the short stroll.

The togetherness is real, he argues, and it will help the Arabs get through the challenge of a derby at the home of their neighbours.

Robson said: “A few people have mentioned that I am the longest-serving player, which is pretty crazy when you look at my age.

“Being local, I know all about what a derby means to the fans and to the city.

“I guess the biggest change since I first broke into the team is the atmosphere around the club.

“Everyone is together now and you can feel it all being pulled in the same direction.

“It wasn’t always like that and it was tough to play here before when things were not going well.

“Even taking a touch in a game, the fans would be on you and you could feel the nerves around the whole place.

“There was a lot of negativity and it becomes a bit stifling. It is hard to play your best when it’s like that.

“You become worried about making mistakes rather than try things that might not come off.

“It could be hostile but now it’s positive and it’s amazing. The change started slowly. The fans could see a team coming together and now they are giving us brilliant backing.

“Hopefully we can give them plenty to be happy about.”

United’s Jamie Robson