Mystery still surrounds the resignation of Justine Mitchell as a Dundee United director.
The Tannadice board held a scheduled meeting yesterday, where the decision of the sister of chairman Stephen Thompson to step down was formally accepted by the remaining directors.
In a statement, the club said: “Dundee United can today confirm the resignation of Justine Mitchell as a director of Dundee United Football Company Limited.”
“Justine has informed the board that she wishes to focus her efforts on the development of Dundee United women’s team and the club’s community involvement.”
Courier Sport understands that the board meeting did not receive a fuller explanation for her decision and the directors – including her brother – remain puzzled as to why she felt it necessary to quit instead of staying on board while continuing her interests in the women’s team and United’s wider community involvement.
The timing has been unfortunate to say the least, coming as it did just 24 hours after the Tangerines lost the semi-final of the William Hill Scottish Cup to Hibs.
She does, though, remain holder of 33% of the club’s shares and there has been some speculation over where the loss of Mitchell as a director leaves the Thompson family’s involvement in United.
However, it is understood that Stephen has absolutely no plans to walk away from Tannadice.
On the contrary, he is understood to be more determined than ever to dig in and make the tough decisions that will need to be taken if, as expected, relegation is the Tangerines’ fate.
Indeed, fans can expect a root and branch review affecting the playing side and other areas of the operation at the end of the season.