Dundee United boss Micky Mellon faces one of his biggest tests since taking over at Tannadice later this afternoon. He takes his team to Celtic Park to face the Scottish Champions.
United pushed Celtic close when the teams met at Tannadice back in August. They were only separated by a late Albian Ajeti goal, as United lost 1-o.
Face a rejuvenated side
Now United face a Celtic side who seem rejuvenated after a series of poor results. The United boss knows that it will be a difficult prospect as he bids to end a 28-year wait for a Dundee United win at Celtic Park. The Tannadice club last won at Celtic Park in 1992.
To that end, Mellon has identified what his team must do if they are to stop Celtic, and pull off what would be a memorable victory.
“We will go down there and be like Dundee United always should be – well-organised, run hard for the jersey, go and compete. And if we can get all those things right, we will give ourselves an opportunity” he said.
If United can do that, they are capable of causing Celtic problems. The first goal will be key to their chances of getting a result you would imagine. If United can get that, they can shut up shop and attempt to hit Celtic on the break.
Inspired by club legend
Mellon also disclosed that he is inspired by Dundee United icon Jim McLean. The Scottish football legend died on Saturday at the age of 83.
“His legacy is still very clearly here, you only have to walk through the club, and you can still feel it all around you which is terrific and so it should be. An unbelievable standard has been set” he said.