Walking away from Sunday’s game against Hamilton the boos rang in my ears.
Outside the stadium fans had just begun a “Thompson out” protest.
Like thousands of other “Arabs” I was in a complete state of disbelief at our fall from footballing grace over the past year. How had we gone from a team which, we thought, could not only challenge for, but win the Premiership to being relegation favourites?
Dundee United fans have a reputation for loyalty but this has been sorely tested. Questions are being asked all over Dundee pubs and workplaces about Stephen Thompson’s commitment to the club, the player sell-on bonuses paid to Jackie McNamara, and the conduct of the club’s financial affairs.
While, rightly, angry at the performance on the pitch it’s these aspects which have the Tannadice faithful incensed. What business would sell its prized assets at cut-price rates to its biggest rivals as United did with Ciftci, Armstrong and Mackay-Steven?
Mark you Mixu Paatelainen’s team selection and long ball tactics have hardly endeared him to supporters used to more stylish football.
We deserve better but don’t believe we’ll get it either on or off the field under this regime.
For more on our study of the challenges facing Dundee United, click here.
