Dundee United manager Csaba Laszlo has sent out a clear message that he wants to add experience to his squad when the transfer window opens next week.
The Tannadice boss has gone on record to say his priority is a big striker to add some strength and height to his forward line.
He has also been linked with a possible move for Dumbarton’s 21-year-old midfielder Tom Walsh, a former Rangers player.
With playmaker Fraser Fyvie now joining a lengthy injury injury list Laszlo, who takes his team to Paisley to play St Mirren on Friday night in the Championship’s game of the season thus far, is looking to boost his squad further than just a frontman after using three young substitutes against Livingston on Saturday.
Matty Smith (20) came on a couple of minutes before half-time to replace knee injury victim Fyvie, taking over Scott McDonald’s striking role as the Aussie moved deeper. It was a mature performance from the youngster but he only has half-a-dozen matches behind him.
Scott Allardice was a late replacement for double goalscorer Paul McMullan but, despite playing 16 times for the Tangerines, is still only 19.
Logan Chalmers also came on late to take the place of Scott Fraser but he is still a mere 17 years of age.
Laszlo said: “What is important as a team is that you have a strong bench.
“We have good, young footballers but they need time to develop.
“In the last minute on Saturday, I brought on Logan Chalmers but he is a 17-year-old boy.
“We also had Matty Smith on for Fraser Fyvie. He has played some games and is a promising player but is also young.
“Scott Allardice also came on and he has more experience but is still only 19.
“I am happy with the young boys but we can’t expect them always to go on and change the dynamic of the game.
“You probably need more experienced players to come on and do that.
“To be honest with you, we are looking for some new players, hopefully with quality.
“This is important because you do get injuries, as we have seen at the moment.
“We have to protect our young players while also delivering results on the pitch.”
The injury to Fyvie is a serious setback but the good news for Laszlo is that both Willo Flood and Stewart Murdoch look likely to face St Mirren.
The United boss said: “I have to put everything together in my head as regards our injuries.
“It was good news that Willo Flood was on the bench against Livingston.
“It is also very important for us that Stewart Murdoch will be back playing for us.
“Getting these boys into the team will help us because we have been struggling with injuries.”
United can expect a large support to follow them west on Friday despite the massive clash against the Buddies falling in the middle of the festive season.
The club shop reopens today after a break and fans can purchase tickets. Prices are adults £20, concessions £10 and under-13s £5.
United supporters have been allocated the North Stand and tickets will also be available to purchase on match day.
