THE SEARCH for a new Dundee United manager began in earnest yesterday when the board gathered at Tannadice to explore their options.
Chairman Stephen Thompson and his fellow directors met to discuss how to proceed in the wake of Peter Houston’s decision to quit when his current deal expires in May.
The get-together marked a positive conclusion to a difficult week for the United board members, who had to sit and listen to Houston claim that he wasn’t renewing his deal because of concerns over the size of the playing budget in future years.
That negative image of what lies ahead was not shared by the men and woman vice-chair Cath Thompson also attended the meeting who sat around the boardroom table.
Topping the agenda was targeting who they want to take over from Houston.
Derek McInnes, the former United captain and ex-St Johnstone and Bristol City manager, remains a serious candidate.
The 41-year-old is of the type they are looking for a young coach still hungry for success and with a record of achievement at SPL level or similar.
Motherwell boss Stuart McCall would also fit the bill but the directors will be exhausting all options before making a decision.
As he predicted at Thursday’s media conference, the chairman’s phone has been already been extremely busy as potential candidates have staked their claim for what will remain one of the most lucratively paid managerial posts in Scottish football.
“The board met today and we laid out the criteria we are looking for in a manager to replace Peter,” said Thompson. “It was a long and positive discussion and we are moving ahead with confidence that we will find an excellent new manager in due course.”
iroache@thecourier.co.uk