THE RESPECT in which he holds Hamilton has seen Dundee United boss Craig Levein compile a comprehensive dossier on SPL new boys, writes Ian Roache.

As soon as the fixtures computer put them at New Douglas Park for their season opener, it looked like a tricky prospect for the Tangerines.

So Levein has done all he can to make sure there are no surprises when United head to Lanarkshire on Monday night.

“We have had Hamilton watched five times in pre-season,” he revealed.

“It’s fair to say we are well aware of what they can do.

“Also, we played against them in the cup last year and they have not changed their side much over the summer.

“That consistency of personnel will be a big strength for Hamilton as their lads all know each other inside out.

“On top of that, they have a winning mentality having secured plenty of victories on their way to clinching the first division championship last season.

“Playing in the SPL will be a step up—there is no question about that—but Hamilton have a lot of good young players and this is an opportunity they will relish.

“They won’t be scared, that is for sure, and the younger ones have a lot of potential to improve.

“I know the people at Hamilton and they are good football folk.

“There is no doubt they will have the team fit, determined and well organised, so it is a really tough start for us.

“When we played them in the cup last season we had to play really well to beat them and I expect that to be no different on Monday.”

Levein insists he is non-plussed about having to wait to get the season started as a result of the Accies game being televised live to the nation.

“Playing on Monday is not a disaster,” he added.

“It is something which happens all the time in modern football so you just get on with it.

“When you look at it, one SPL game kicks off at lunchtime on Saturday, another is on Sunday and we are on Monday. So that’s half the league not playing at 3pm on Saturday.

“Setanta pay a lot of money to the league and gave us a great deal, so you have to be prepared to play at the time when people want to watch football on TV.”

Strike pair Francisco Sandaza and Warren Feeney both sat out training yesterday with minor knocks but are expected to make quick recoveries.

“Warren got a wee kick in training but he will be back soon, while Francisco is coming along fine and should join in with the rest tomorrow,” added Levein.