Dundee United manager Mixu Paatelainen is backing the fans to support them all the way at Hampden today.
Around 7,000 are expected in the United sections at the national stadium to see their side take on Hibs in the William Hill Scottish Cup semi-final, while approximately 13,000 will cheer on their opponents.
There may not exactly be a party atmosphere in the stands, given the Tannadice club’s relegation woes at the foot of the Premiership and the Edinburgh club’s dreadful form in the Championship.
However, Paatelainen is confident that he can count on those decked in tangerine and black to get right behind the players this afternoon.
“I’m not worried because our fans have been excellent,” said Paatelainen.
“Wherever we have gone they have been loud.
“The backing this season in any game has been brilliant.
“A few weeks ago at Firhill they filled that main stand and were so loud and vocal.
“Last weekend at Tannadice (the loss to Inverness Caley Thistle) there was a big support but unfortunately we didn’t play well and we didn’t repay them for that support.
“So my message is to please, please keep supporting us because it is very important.
“It’s important for the players out there in terms of confidence.
“They hear that. They feel the atmosphere and say: ‘There’s our troops.’
“I expect the fans will be there again because they have been magnificent in what has been a horrendous season.”
Paatelainen was asked if, under the circumstances, the onus was on the players to give the supporters something to shout about early in the game.
He replied: “Absolutely and hopefully sooner than later.
“Like any game, you want to start well and give the fans cause for optimism.”
There has, of course, been good selection news for United, with captain Paul Paton declared fit despite still being bothered by a knee injury.
Central defender Mark Durnan is suspended after being sent off in the dramatic quarter-final win over Ross County in Dingwall.
Meanwhile, the ticket portacabin situated behind the West Stand at Hampden will sell United end tickets for the North Stand from 10.15am.