Dundee United players told they can go as cuts begin

A large chunk of the Dundee United squad have paid the price for relegation by being told they’re free to leave at the end of the season.

Club chairman Stephen Thompson has been holding individual meetings with his first team squad and it’s understood younger players Blair Spittal, Simon Murray and Scott Fraser are among those who’ve been told they remain part of the plans for next season.

Many others have been told they will be surplus to requirements or will not be offered new contracts when their current deals expire in the summer.

Those whose deals are not up at the end of the season do have the option of sitting tight. There has been no suggestion there contracts would be terminated early.

None of the short-term signings made by now departed manager Mixu Paatelainen are expected to be given the chance to stay on.