Eiji Kawashima is being backed to be a “big signing” for Dundee United despite suffering derby defeat on his debut.
The Japanese goalkeeper was involved in the loss of the first goal at Dens as he failed to punch clear a Nicky Low freekick and Kane Hemmings fired home the loose ball.
He was then blameless for Dundee’s winner as Nick Ross’s shot was deflected past him by United captain Sean Dillon.
It may not have been a winning start for Kawashima but his Tannadice teammate Ryan McGowan believes he will prove to be a valuable asset.
“I thought coming into a big game like this he performed very well,” said McGowan.
“He will be a very big signing for us.
“He will bring a lot of experience and presence to the side and do well for the rest of the season.
“He is a confident guy, who is eager to help and speak up.”
Indeed, McGowan revealed that, despite being forced to pass a language test in order to gain his United Kingdom work permit, Kawashima is easier to understand than some others in the dressing room.
“We were laughing about him having to take an English test as part of his permit application because he probably speaks better English than half the people in the team,” added McGowan.
“I would like to see Simon Murray take an English test. He would fail 100%!
“I’m joking but Eiji can speak five or six languages so that’s another thing that has gone against us because he could have been here maybe four or five weeks ago and been a bit more settled in.”