Chairman Stephen Thompson has rubbished talk promotion this term is win or bust for Dundee United.
But even if the Tangerines are back in the Premiership next term, the two-year absence will have cost around £5 million.
There’s been talk failure to get back up this term would see United go under but Thompson has moved to set the record straight.
“I’ve been hearing that for over two years and I’m sick of answering questions about finance. One of the problems at United was we were too open for too long,” he said.
“I don’t see any other clubs in Scotland answering these questions. We are the only ones people point the finger at.
“This club will always be around. There are other things happening right now — Dundee United will be around as a club. Absolutely!”
That’s a hint United remain optimistic about securing investment, with cash from America being the most likely source.
The chairman did not hide the fact relegation last year had been costly and that continues to be so.
“There is a lot less money in the Championship than the Premiership. We’ve had £66,000 from the league and the Premiership have had £660,000 plus £350,000 Uefa money.
“We are in our second year in the Championship and the penalty for not going up last season was £2.5m in income. It’s a challenge.
“Every season is a challenge but it’s a bigger challenge in the Championship because all of the money is in the top league.
“If we don’t go up then there will be a lot more pain. But we are not talking about that.
“We have a new manager and the target is winning the league.”
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