Dutchman Nick van der Velden is relishing the challenge of helping get Dundee United back where they belong.
The Tangerines’ latest recruit has revealed the club’s battle to get back to the Premiership in just one season is one of the reasons he’s at Tannadice.
“I am the kind of player who needs a challenge so helping Dundee United this season is good for me,” said the 34-year-old.
“This is a perfect club for me.
“To come here, I am very excited.
“I know the fans and the team do not want to be out of the top division and to be able to help them get back there is good.”
The former Willem II attacker is leaving his homeland for the first time and, in the process, fulfilling a long-held ambition to play abroad.
“It is a dream for me to play abroad and Scotland was one of the lands where I wanted to play.
“I am looking forward to it.”
Van der Velden made his debut when he came on as a sub in the 6-1 League Cup win over Cowdenbeath on Tuesday.
Having trained for a few days before that, he was not surprised by the quality of United’s display.
“The real test is on Saturday (when Inverness are faced) but we did well on Tuesday and we showed some good football.
“I was very impressed but I have trained with the players and I could see their quality.
“The coach also has a clear vision and there are players here who are able to take that on to the pitch.”
Tonight sees the first event in club captain Sean Dillon’s testimonial year with a Race Night in the Hegarty Suite at Tannadice.
A limited number of tickets are still available.
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