First Team
All The Info | Rangers (A)
22nd November 2024
With United's 2001-2002 campaign coming to a conclusion this weekend, Manager Alex Smith stated on Friday afternoon: "We are looking forward to this last match of the season and it is very important for us to take all three points to finish on a reasonable league position and to finish ahead of local rivals Dundee. And whilst we are in a much healthier position than last year, it is only is one step towards the direction we are aiming for. Our objective is to continue to improve and to further progress in the league, hopefully finishing in the top six next season and bringing qualification for Europe within our reach."
In view of the immediate challenge ahead, Smith stated, "Sunday's game away to Kilmarnock will be difficult and our record at Rugby Park is poor. The task is to rectify this record and finish the season on a high note."
On the team selection, Smith explained: "With Lauchlan being one booking away from suspension, we have decided not to take the risk of fielding him against his former team on Sunday as this situation always puts a player under extra pressure. For me it is more important to have Lauchlan available for the first match of next season. Instead, we will re-introduce Griffin after injury. Further, we are thinking of resting Gallacher prior to him heading off with the Scotland squad on Monday, so Jarvie may get the opportunity to show what he can do on this level. Thompson, on the other hand, is need of match practice before his trip with the national squad as his last match was against Dundee."
In view of the immediate challenge ahead, Smith stated, "Sunday's game away to Kilmarnock will be difficult and our record at Rugby Park is poor. The task is to rectify this record and finish the season on a high note."
On the team selection, Smith explained: "With Lauchlan being one booking away from suspension, we have decided not to take the risk of fielding him against his former team on Sunday as this situation always puts a player under extra pressure. For me it is more important to have Lauchlan available for the first match of next season. Instead, we will re-introduce Griffin after injury. Further, we are thinking of resting Gallacher prior to him heading off with the Scotland squad on Monday, so Jarvie may get the opportunity to show what he can do on this level. Thompson, on the other hand, is need of match practice before his trip with the national squad as his last match was against Dundee."
