UNITED SECURE TRIO

Dundee United today extended the contracts of central midfielder Paul Paton until end of season 2016/17 and winger Aidan Connolly until end of season 2015/16. The Club also confirmed the signing of ex-Celtic youngster Scott Lochhead until the summer of 2016. Northern Irish Internationalist Paton, 27, is rewarded for his consistent performances which have already witnessed him play 48 times for the Terros since joining in June 2013. Dundee born Aidan Connolly also joined United in June 2013 on a two-year deal and was heralded as one for the future by Manager Jackie McNamara. Throughout season 2013/14 he enjoyed a loan spell at Brechin City before making his first team début as a substitute in a 3-1 victory over Motherwell in February 2014. 17-year-old attacking midfielder Scott Lochhead joins the Club after his release from Celtic. A product of the Rangers youth set up where he spent seven years, Scott joined Celtic two years ago before leaving the Glasgow club during season 2013/14. Manager Jackie McNamara said, “Paul has been the model of consistency since joining United. I knew him from our previous club and knew what he would bring to the Club. He has played a big part in helping us reach where we are and his level of performance has seen him capped by Northern Ireland. His desire and work rate are infectious and he deserves the security this extension brings. “Aidan has really improved his level of performance since the start of pre season and has shown he is ready to make the step up to the first team. If he continues to train hard and give  the same level of effort and commitment, he will be a star for this Club for years to come. “Scott is someone we knew about and I was delighted when he became available. It is pleasing that yet another good young Scottish prospect wants to join United and he joins in the knowledge that he will get the opportunity to develop here. He is a tidy player with great awareness for his age. I am delighted to sign him up.”