Ilmari Niskanen insists his sole focus remains on driving Dundee United up the table after making his first start of the season against St Mirren.
The Finland internationalist was a shock selection for Saturday’s 2-1 defeat against the Buddies, having found first team opportunities scarce this season. He replaced Kieran Freeman in the line-up.
Niskanen, 24, had made eight appearances for the Tangerines prior to the trip to Paisley — none of which were in the starting 11.
And he proved unable to help spark a crucial triumph for United, with Liam Fox’s side slipping three points adrift of guaranteed Premiership safety.
During a recent international break, Niskanen told the media in his homeland that his limited minutes had given him pause for thought. However, he is adamant his commitment to — and love for — United has never wavered.
“My focus is 100% on Dundee United,” Niskanen told Courier Sport, confirming that his deal runs to 2024.
“I love playing here so much and the only thing I have ever thought about is helping Dundee United as much as possible. That will not change.
“I have really enjoyed being at this club and, although this season has been tough because of the really bad results, and the fact I have not played, I want to help the team go in the right direction.”
Extreme frustration
Niskanen was deployed in a right wing-back role against the Buddies, making his first appearance since entering the fray as a substitute against St Johnstone on October 1.
He was withdrawn after 54 minutes, with Steven Fletcher climbing from the bench to ripple the net.
“The result is the only thing on my mind and it is extreme frustration and disappointment,” continued Niskanen. “There is no consolation for that.
“It hasn’t been an easy start to the season, for the team and also for myself, personally. I want to play as much as possible.
“I have been working hard and trying to remain positive. My motivation has always been really high and I have been waiting for my chance. I got an opportunity on Saturday but we couldn’t win — so that doesn’t feel great.”
Respect
Niskanen hopes to be afforded another chance to shine when Motherwell visit Tannadice on Saturday, with United seeking to build on successive home wins against Aberdeen and Hibernian earlier this month.
“I love playing football and I love playing for Dundee United so it was great to be back on the pitch on Saturday — and I want to be in the team against Motherwell,” he added. “I have to be training well this week.
#LovelyStuff from Ilmari Niskanen for Dundee United this week. Really getting back to his best after the wasted time in Germany #huuhkajat
— Escape To Suomi 🇫🇮⚽️ (@EscapeToSuomi) February 11, 2022
“I’ll always give my best on the training pitch and will respect the manager’s decision (but) I always want to play — it is not easy to watch from the sidelines.”
He added: “We cannot feel sorry for ourselves. I can’t feel sorry for myself. I have to keep working and pushing hard, and hopefully the team can drive forward. Next week is a new chance, a new game, and we want to win desperately.”
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