Jackie McNamara Sr is desperate to see his son lead Dundee United to League Cup glory this weekend after witnessing first-hand his devastation at failing to lift the Scottish Cup.
The 62-year-old was part of a vast family gathering at Parkhead last May “there must have been about 27 of us there that day,” he said but the party fell flat as St Johnstone ran out comfortable 2-0 winners.
He recalled the obvious anguish on the face of United boss McNamara following the result and more particularly the performance, as the Tannadice side failed to exhibit any of their usual flair or swagger in the season showpiece.
However, McNamara Sr will be in attendance at Hampden on Sunday and, reflecting on his son’s “steel” and “determination” to recover from last term’s heartbreak, he believes United can make amends.
The former Hibs and Celtic midfielder said: “You could see just how disappointed and hurt he was. Jackie is an ambitious boy and that was a big kick he took last May.
“It was a real knock because his team didn’t really turn up at Celtic Park. But, for a quiet laddie he has a steely determination which everyone saw as a player and he has taken that into management, so I’m sure he is using last year as motivation.
“The whole family will be there again so, fingers crossed, he can get across the finish line this time.
“Celtic are overwhelming favourites, but Dundee United have some fine young players (Charlie) Telfer, (Aidan) Connolly and (Blair) Spittal who can make an impact.”