Dundee United’s Scottish Cup hero Danny Swanson is all but certain to leave Tannadice in the summer.
Manager Peter Houston revealed that the playmaker first told him a few months ago he would be looking to move on at the end of this season, and this prompted the pre-contract signing of Ross County’s Michael Gardyne.
In all probability Swanson will be joining Garry Kenneth, Dusan Pernis, Scott Robertson and Paul Dixon in waving goodbye to the United fans at Motherwell on Sunday.
After an injury-plagued last two seasons, both Houston and the player himself believe new surroundings will benefit the 25-year-old.
He said: ”Through no fault of his own, Danny’s started five games this season. Last season he started nine. So it’s clear that he’s been hampered by injury and illness. It’s a tough one and it might be that Danny needs to kickstart his career somewhere else.
”If he gets a chance at Aberdeen (with whom he has been linked) or wherever I’ll certainly be wishing him, and anybody else who moves on, well.
”There’s no doubting his ability. I just couldn’t get him on the park. It’s a bit like Sandaza. I wouldn’t have let Fran go if he’d been playing every week.
”But 14 games isn’t a lot since the cup final, even though he’s been sub on a lot of occasions. You can’t legislate for the injuries he’s had and I think a fresh start is maybe the best thing.”
Houston added: ”I’ve not spoken to him recently but we talked a couple of times earlier in the season. Danny indicated before Christmas that he’d maybe like to move on and try something different. That’s why I signed the likes of Michael Gardyne.
”He’s a similar type of player skillful and good at running at people. He can play a number of positions as well.”
Swanson could be in line for a Fir Park farewell.
Houston said: ”I’ve not really thought about my team selection yet but I might give some of the guys who are leaving a game.
”Stuart Armstrong needs a game and Richie Ryan needs a game, but the defence will pick itself because I don’t have many options there.”
Robbie Neilson and Barry Douglas are both doubts because of ankle injuries, while Gavin Gunning is an almost certain non-starter.
Meanwhile, Houston is hoping his players will feel the benefit of a later start to next season which their fourth place SPL finish has given them.
He said: ”Coming in later for Europe suits us better for pre-season.
”We’re more or less organised now for our preparations.”
Houston paid tribute to the club’s supporters for their contribution over the course of another successful campaign.
He stated: ”The fans have given us great backing and have helped us get into fourth. Some of the away crowds have been as good as I can remember and the players have rewarded them.
”It wouldn’t surprise me if there’s another big crowd at Motherwell and it will be nice for them to see a few players who might be moving on after the match.”