Houston - Cuts must be made

Chairman Stephen Thompson announced on Wednesday he plans to slash the playing budget for next season in a bid to balance the books.

United have a shortfall of around £500,000 to make up this season, with Thompson hoping money from a high Clydesdale Bank Premier League finish and a good run in the Scottish Cup will again plug the gap.

If that does not happen, Thompson's family will be forced to dig deep once again, But with a number of players out of contract in the summer - including Craig Conway, Prince Buaben, Danny Cadamarteri and Morgaro Gomis - United will be able to significantly restructure their wage bill.

Houston accepts he will have to scour the transfer market for cheaper alternatives if any of his first team do leave but recognises the need to secure United's future.

"The cuts have to be made," said Houston. "It is more important that Dundee United is here for the long term. We don't want to get into some of the same problems other clubs have had and suffer financial difficulties. I have spoken to the chairman but we don't have exact figures at the moment. We'll see what happens between now and May, then we have a clearer idea of what we'll be working with."

Source: PA

Source: PA