ARCHIE ARROWS IN ON FIRST-TEAM INVOLVEMENT

Midfielder Archie Thomas enjoyed the experience of two Irn-Bru Cup starts last campaign, and he is keen to experience more first-team football this season.

Speaking to Dundee United's online tv channel ArabZONE ahead of the Irn-Bru Cup tie versus St Johnstone Colts at Tannadice tonight, the 19-year-old said, "My aim this season is to make more of an impact on the first team. I got a taste for it last season, and it gave me a sense of what I want. I have to use games like tonight to catch the Manager's eye and get into the first team squad more".

United will approach the fixture with a mostly young squad although there will be several fringe players taking part and the Englishman sees it as an opportunity to win while staking a claim.

"We should have quite a strong squad for this one with a few first-team players involved alongside the reserves and young lads, and we are looking to win the game and progress in the Irn-Bru Cup. It is a fantastic opportunity for everyone to show their talent on a different stage in front of the United fans on Tannadice and everyone will be looking to impress."

Archie's four first team appearances last season all came in cup competition with his debut against Raith Rovers in the Betfred Cup as a substitute being followed by three Irn-Bru Cup ties - the last of these in October 2017, but the combative midfielder has knuckled down in his pursuit of further first-team involvement.

He said, "When you experience first-team football it is a little tricky when you drop back out, and you perhaps wonder what you could have done differently, but you just need to keep working hard and believe your chance will come along again."

Among the significant changes at Tannadice over the summer was the introduction of several new teammates in the reserve squad and, of course, coach Scott Robertson and Reserve team Manager Craig Easton.

Archie is enjoying the experience so far revealing, "With Eastie and Robbo here there is a different tempo to training, and it is tough, but I think everyone is enjoying it. There were a lot of young players who came into the squad over the summer, and I am now one of the older heads I guess, but I have to use that experience to drive everyone on in training and do the best we can for Dundee United."

The match tonight kicks off at 7.45pm and supporters are reminded that only the Jerry Kerr Stand is open. Prices are set at £10 for adults and £5 for concessions. Season tickets are not valid for the fixture.

The Hegarty Suite is open from 5pm for all United fans but will not be opening after the match.

Fans abroad can watch the match on WATCH LIVE for only £5 or as part of a season-long membership priced just £120.