Harkes urges United to get back to basics

Ian Harkes believes Dundee United need to get back to basics after three straight losses ahead of today’s home game against St Mirren.

The 1-0 loss to Livingston in the Premiership at Tannadice on August 7 tempered the thrilling 1-0 Europa Conference League qualifying win over AZ Alkmaar three days previously on Tayside.

However, last Thursday night' s spectacular 7-0 thrashingby the dutch side in the second leg was followed by a 4-1 defeat by Hearts at Tynecastle on Sunday which has turned the spotlight on Jack Ross's side ahead of the visit of St Mirren.

Harkes is confident of a return to form if “good habits” are resumed.

The 27-year-old midfielder, who signed fromdc united in 2019, said: "It is easy to forget about what we did well.

“The game moves quickly and it is on to the next game right away, as always, but you need to remind yourself when you are having those tough periods that we are a good team.

“We did it at home a couple of weeks ago against a very good team, so we know we are capable.

“We need to get back to those good habits and back to basics.

“Defending around the box, getting to people quicker, not (letting them) get shots off, blocking crosses, getting back to those kinds of basics.

“And on the other side, being better on the ball everywhere and getting back to that exciting football we know we can play.

“It’s a challenge. We have to stand up to it.

“We can't fold, we can't go inwards on ourselves, we have to stand up and show the leadership in the group.”