His attackers grabbed the limelight in midweek but, in advance of today’s league trip to Dumbarton, Dundee United gaffer Ray McKinnon has highlighted the work of his rearguard.
Hat-trick hero Cammy Smith was star man in the Betfred Cup win over Partick and Tope Obadeyi and Scott Fraser were also singled out for praise.
Ray, though, feels his defenders played their part as well and will be vital in the bid to chalk up a first Championship success.
“I would give a bit of praise to my defence because they took a bit of criticism last year,” he said.
“They are giving everything. Partick came at us in the second half and the defenders stood up to it.
“Whether they are John Terrys or not, all you can ask is for them to give everything and that’s what they’re doing.
“In the second half on Tuesday, apart from Partick’s penalty, I don’t think Cammy Bell had a save to make, so the boys at the back have done well.
“We’ll need that to continue.”
United will welcome back Dutchman Nick van der Velden after he missed out against the Jags because of suspension.
And full-back Lewis Toshney, missing against Queen of the South last weekend with a calf strain, is OK despite coming off late in the cup-tie.
“Lewis was just a bit tight because he’s missed a bit of training when he broke his nose in pre-season and then with the calf strain. He’ll be fine,” he added.
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