Courts: United are confident of three points from Dundee derby

Dundee United boss Tam Courts is confident his side can take bragging rights from Sunday’s derby and extend his side’s home record in the fixture.

United haven’t lost to Dundee at Tannadice since 2004 and are aiming to take three points from their rivals as they meet in the top flight once again.

Courts believes his side are playing well and have the right experience to beat James McPake’s side, meaning everyone goes into the fixture with belief.

“I always feel confident in this group,” he said. “Even in the week leading up to the Rangers game.

“I can see the journey that we’re on as a group. I can see the players taking on the ideas.

“I’ve seen these players serve the club really well, win the Championship, win multiple Dundee derbies. From speaking to the players, they know what’s expected of them, they’re excited by it and they’ve every confidence that we’ll claim the three points on Sunday.”

For Courts, the derby will be his first as a manager. After being appointed as Micky Mellon’s successor in the summer, he takes another step in his management career but shows no nerves as he approaches the big occasion.

“This is just another unique first for me,” he said. “It’s something I’ve witnessed as an employee of the club before.

“I’ve seen three previous Dundee derbies, I’ve seen Dundee United win on each of those occasions.

“For me it’s just a real exciting proposition and a great platform for the players. I think they’re on a really good run of form just now, playing some really good football.”

The manager faces a tough selection choice with Benjamin Siegrist back in full training. Trevor Carson has stepped into goal in the keeper’s absence, and there’s now a battle to be number one choice.

“When we signed Trevor we knew exactly what we were getting,” Courts said. “We also knew that if Trevor got an opportunity then it would be very difficult to displace him.

“He is an international quality goalkeeper. He’s just been away with his country there and played a game.

“It’s a really good problem to have. It’s a problem that I relish and it’s great to see the guys pushing each other on a daily basis.”