Houston set for contract talks

Last updated : 11 December 2012 By Daily Record

Dundee United boss Peter Houston will hold contracts talks with the club next week.

The 54-year-old’s deal ends at the end of the season and since taking over in 2009 he has helped the Tangerines lift the Scottish Cup and qualify for Europe three seasons running.

Houston’s agent, John Colquhoun, will meet with United chairman Stephen Thompson for discussions on extending his stay at the club.

Meanwhile, Brian McLean savoured every minute as Dundee United dumped rivals Dundee but insisted he would hate to see the Dark Blues go down.

McLean tasted the red-hot derby atmosphere fully for the first time following his summer switch to Tayside in the 3-0 demolition at Dens Park.

United added to their impressive August win by the same scoreline to leave Dundee six points adrift and facing a fight to stay up after promotion in the summer.

And while Arabs ace McLean lapped up Sunday’s televised triumph the defender was quick to admit he’s willing Dundee to win their survival battle so the unique derby experience lasts long term.

McLean said: “It was a great atmosphere and a privilege to play in such an occasion. It showed the SPL needs the Dundee derby.

“To be honest we’re hoping for Dundee to stay up because of what it brings to the city. I can’t wait for the return at Tannadice because it’s a game that has everyone buzzing. Looking back it was quite a professional performance.

“If we can go on a wee run approaching the Christmas period and into the winter break it would be great.

“It would give us a huge boost, and the self-belief and confidence would grow around the club. We want to kick on from here.”