NO GLASS CEILING FOR DECLAN

Declan Glass is enjoying his dual football career path at the moment. He has been part of Csaba Laszlo's first-team squad for most first-team games this season with two starts and five substitute appearances but has also been a regular starter for the reserves.

The attacking midfielder who turned 18 in June is appreciating the time he is getting on the park with the reserves despite now being part of the first-team squad.

"I am loving being part of the first team squad but its good to be getting game time and minutes for the reserves also, it means I am sharp if called upon in the first-team. I'm enjoying being part of both squads and happy to be involved in both."

Declan was speaking to Dundee United's online TV channel ArabZONE ahead of this Saturday's Irn-Bru cup tie against Alloa. He is expected to start the game alongside a host of reserve players and first-team players who are needing game time. 'Deco' sees it as an excellent opportunity for him and the other players who will be involved to experience a step up in opposition from the previous round.

"Quite a few of the boys knew the St Johnstone Colts well but are stepping into the unknown a little against Alloa. Alloa will be very competitive; it will be a good test and I am looking forward to it."

Reserve football has, of course, been reintroduced this season and while results so far have witnessed United lose plenty goals, Declan can see the benefits already for players at his stage of development.

"We have come up against better players than the previous season, and some teams are playing quite a few first-team players, so that becomes a good test for a young team like ours. Overall, it hasn't been too different, but it is a step up from the development league I would say."

Declan caught the eye in pre-season and Betfred Cup action with two fantastic goals (against Cowdenbeath and Elgin), and this is something that he wants to add to his game.

"I want to add goals - and assists. I scored at Elgin and in pre season against and, hopefully, I can keep kicking on and get shots away. Everyone enjoys scoring goals, and I want to score more."

United fans would be overjoyed to see Declan add to his goal tally on Saturday and help Craig Easton's young team see off the challenge of Alloa and progress into the next round of the Irn-Bru Cup.

The match kicks off at 3pm on Saturday and United fans can enter both the Eddie Thompson Lower and Jerry Kerr Stands.

Prices are £10 for adults and £5 for concessions.

Overseas fans can stream the action via ArabZONE's WATCH LIVE service for only £5.