DUNDEE UNITED’S Craig Conway could be set for a return to first-team action in time for the new season after getting the all clear from his specialist.

The 23-year-old former Ayr United midfielder has broken bones in both feet over the last year but assistant manager Peter Houston, speaking from the club’s St Andrews pre- season base, hailed his recovery, saying, “Craig has seen his specialist and he’s been given the all clear.”

United head to Dublin next week for friendly matches against University College Dublin and Tolka Rovers and Conway is set to join his teammates in training after being told he can resume ball work.

“He’ll be coming away with us next week and will be doing some ball work,” said Houston.

“He’s had a hard time over the last year but hopefully his problems will be behind him.

“We’ve done some really good business this summer, the squad is really starting to take shape and having players back fit again will be another big bonus.”

Houston also singled out highly rated teenager Keith Watson for praise, acclaiming his fitness as he recovers from a dislocated kneecap.

United boss Craig Levein has described the 18-year-old as the most talented prospect he’s ever seen and the high regard in which he is held means his return to action won’t be rushed.

“Keith is coming along really well and he’s been right up there at the front in training,” Houston said.

“It has been one of our biggest disappointments since coming here that we’ve not been able to play him because he’s a really top prospect.

“It has been a hard time for him with injury but his attitude has been first class and he’s in really good shape right now.

“We’re not going to push it, though, and he’ll get more time to make sure everything is completely fine before he steps up his training to the next level.

“We’ve worked the lads really hard since they came back from their holidays and it hasn’t been a problem at all for him.

“He won’t be rushed but he’s making good progress.”