By Graeme Dey

Dundee United chairman Eddie Thompson yesterday expressed confidence that Craig Levein will be remaining at Tannadice.

Hearts are reputed to be considering trying to entice Levein back to Tynecastle for a second spell as manager.

They are said to be planning a swoop for either Levein or Motherwell boss Mark McGhee at the end of the season.

But Thompson believes any such bid would fail, and not just because Levein still has a year left to run on his contract at United where he is also director of football.

“Craig Levein and I have a special relationship which—as has been demonstrated by our reaching the CIS Cup final, clinching a top-six place and having a wee chance of qualifying for Europe— is proving highly successful,’’ said Thompson.

“And I expect that to continue into the future.

“At Dundee United I would suggest that, outwith the Old Firm, we now have the most organised set up in the SPL and knowing Craig as I do I’d be astounded if he would consider such a move.’’