FC Utrecht 2 Dundee United 1: McNamara believes Mario Bilate signing will spur on strikers

Dundee United boss Jackie McNamara believes the fierce competition brought about by the arrival of Mario Bilate will bring the best out of his attacking options.

The Russian-born Dutchman made his United bow in a 2-1 defeat to Utrecht, replacing Nadir Ciftci, although McNamara acknowledges he is some way short of match fitness

Bilate, 23, will fight it out with the likes of Ciftci, Brian Graham and Ryan Dow for the right to spearhead United’s attack in the coming campaign something which the Tannadice boss reckons will see others raise their game.

And, as if to prove McNamara’s point, Graham turned in a very impressive cameo in the Stadion Galgenwaard capped with a composed goal late on.

McNamara said: “He will bring the best out of everyone Nadir (Ciftci), Brian (Graham), Ryan (Dow) everyone. When you bring new players in you get that impact.

“Certainly, in my career, you would see new players come in every summer and you know you need to step up. You can’t rest on your laurels.”

For a full match report and more reaction to the friendly see The Courier or try our digital edition.