Liam Fox admits Charlie Mulgrew’s role on the training pitch will vary depending on whether he is playing regularly for Dundee United.
The former Celtic and Scotland defender was named Tannadice first-team coach earlier this month, effectively succeeding the departed Adam Asghar.
Mulgrew, 36, possesses his UEFA ‘A’ Licence and has already been aiding head coach Fox and his assistant Stevie Crawford during sessions.
However, the experienced defender will combine his new duties with playing commitments and — with Mulgrew now back in full training following a thigh strain — it is a balance Fox is happy to strike.
“It’s going to be a bit of a different role because we will need Charlie on the pitch,” said the United boss. “He still has plenty to contribute on that front.
“He’s been working with us the last few weeks, doing bits and pieces of coaching with the players. It has been good and very positive.
“What he’s doing — and how much — will depend on whether he’s playing, because he will obviously have another workload to manage.
“When he’s playing, he will have to focus on that. So there will need to be constant communication between us to see where we’re at. The role will develop over a period of time.”
Fox added: “Charlie is a vastly experienced person and will be a good addition. This is a natural progression for him because he’s got a real love for the game and a lot of attributes to bring to the coaching team.”
Back to work
United players were afforded a brief holiday following their Premiership defeat against Aberdeen.
Sitting bottom of the table for the World Cup break, it is hoped the hiatus will allow them to recharge and refocus.
They were back in training on Monday.
“Everyone is back,” said Fox. “They all had things to do while they were off and they’ve returned in good shape.
“I was happy with how we were performing before the break but now it’s a chance to get some work in and prepare for the next block of games.
“We will be working extremely hard in the next few weeks before the Livingston game.”
United intend to have an intra-squad bounce match later this week, and hope to organise a couple more friendly games before they return to league action at Livi on December 17.
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