In tying Ross Graham to an extended contract, Dundee United have retained the services of a potential Tannadice captain.
That is the view of ex-Tangerines head coach Tam Courts, who reckons Graham’s “ceiling is still much higher”.
Graham’s future appeared to be in doubt as his contract expiry date approached this summer, particularly after Neil Lennon’s Rapid Bucharest were credited with an interest in the Scotland U/21 international.
However, the Blairgowrie boy and diehard Arab penned a new deal until June 2026 last week.
That news delighted Courts, the man who handed Graham his United debut in 2022 and worked closely with the big defender during his time in the Terrors’ youth system.
“I was really happy to hear that Ross had signed a new contract because I still think there is a lot more to come from him,” Courts told Courier Sport. “His ceiling is still a lot higher.
“He is strong, composed, has a terrific temperament and is left-sided, so has a lot of attributes that are very much sought-after at the top level.
“Ross has already come through some challenges. I remember when he was younger; I think it would be fair to say he felt frustration while being out on loan. He felt he should have been in contention for United at that stage of his development.
“But he channelled that the right way, has a great family around him – smart people who understand sport – and ultimately showed why we always had him earmarked to play for the first-team.
“Ross was – and still is – someone I see as a potential Dundee United captain if his progression continues.”
Celtic Park sliding doors moment
Courts handed Graham a shock United bow away against Celtic in January 2022 – just days after he had been recalled from a nightmare loan stint with Dunfermline.
The big stopper was faultless in a narrow 1-0 defeat against the Hoops after entering the fray as a 50th-minute substitute.
He followed that up with goals against Rangers and Hibernian, a Scotland U/21 debut and a nomination for the Scottish Football Writers’ Association young player of the year.
And Courts reckons Graham is the perfect example of grasping one’s big opportunity whenever it arises.
“We were actually due to send Ross back out on loan the week after that Celtic match,” revealed Courts. “However, we had to use him in that match, and it meant he couldn’t play for another club that season.
“Also, he was so good that it changed our thinking – football works in mysterious ways sometimes!
“He just kept meeting every new challenge and ticking off new achievements.”
He added: “Managers can often get credit for making changes or giving opportunities to players, but the credit is all due to Ross for seeing an opening and taking it. He’s a wonderful example to any young player; always be ready for your shot.”
Tough learning curve
The 2022/23 campaign was altogether more challenging for Graham, who struggled to cement a starting berth and was ultimately helpless to stop United from crashing to relegation.
However, Courts has no doubt he will return to the top-flight a stronger, more resolute player following those travails and having helped the Terrors to promotion last term.
“If Ross’ confidence was hit after relegation – and I didn’t see much evidence of that in his performances – then it would only be natural,” added Courts.
“I think EVERY player who suffers relegation has to reflect and regroup.
“But Ross was excellent when he came into the United team at a crucial point last season. There were real glimpses of his quality and leadership abilities in that partnership with Sam McClelland.
“He will need to improve again and show that he can perform in the Premiership on a weekly basis, over the course of a whole season.”
Courts added: “The great thing is, Ross will know that – he is exceptionally responsible and willing to take ownership of what he does well, and areas where he can improve.”
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