Shock resignation of Dundee United director Justine Mitchell

Justine Mitchell, the sister of club chairman Stephen Thompson, has quit the Dundee United board.

In a shock move announced yesterday afternoon – just 24 hours after the Tangerines lost to Hibs in the semi-final of the William Hill Scottish Cup – Ms Mitchell confirmed that she was no longer a director.

The rest of the board were informed of her decision and she then took to social media site Twitter to spread the news.

She wrote: “I have resigned as director of Dundee Utd. I remain a shareholder, fan & am committed to my work with the community and DUWFC (Dundee United Women’s Football Club).”

The timing of the move, ahead of what is a scheduled meeting of the Tannadice board today, is a surprise.

The resignation of Ms Mitchell, who owns over 30% of the shares in United, is expected to be formally accepted at that gathering of the other directors.

The club issued a statement of their own later in the day, saying: “The board of directors confirms it has received notification of intent to resign from Justine Mitchell.

“This matter will be discussed at a previously arranged board meeting on Monday 18 April.”