HEAD COACH PRE MATCH PRESS CONFERENCE

Head Coach Mixu Paatelainen today spoke of the difficulty of tomorrow’s match against Celtic but reiterated that the team would approach the match positively and try to secure three points. “On our day we know we can cause any team problems and, whilst it will be difficult against the top team in Scotland, we have to look to secure the three points.” Asked about the visit to Celtic Park earlier in his reign, Mixu was resolute in his assessment stating, “We have made progress from that day at Celtic Park, no question. “Our overall play has improved so much. Every part of our game has improved. We are so much more dangerous now and create so many opportunities.” As to whether last week’s victory over Airdrie would play a massive part or constitute a turning point, the Head Coach answered, “It was nice to win against Airdrie but tomorrow is a totally different match. We will look to do the same but there will be longer periods when we have to defend. “Every game is a ‘turning point’ – I don’t like this phrase, that’s something that you have to look back on after a season maybe. “Any win gives confidence and is more than welcome.” It was suggested to Mixu that there would have been a noticeable difference in training this week but he refuted that and praised the players’ efforts every single day stating, “There has been no difference in training. The players have been fantastic again, there has been no change because everyone remains professional. There hasn’t been any more laughing, any more joking. It is always there in the right measure. When asked as to whether Celtic are less of a team than previously, the Head Coach played down that suggestion and focused on how we would approach the game. “We approach this game with a clear game plan to win the match. They have great quality in their side and are a fantastic team but we are positive and we look to secure the three points. We have a belief in ourselves whoever we play against. We can pass the ball and cause opponents problems. “Other teams are being more positive against Celtic this season and that has led to an increase in goals against them but they are an excellent team who will make it tough for us. PLAYER SEARCH The Gaffer confirmed that he is currently searching for a different option up front from what is currently available. He confirmed that the Club and Celtic had agreed a loan deal for Anthony Stokes but stressed that the final decision was with the player and whilst he would be delighted if Stokes came to United, he was one of a number of targets currently being pursued. “There is lots going on but I cannot tell you about it!” he joked. When continually pressed on individual players and specifically any bid for Anthony Stokes, Mixu confirmed, “We have made an approach to Celtic and it is up to the player. He has lots of options. Dundee United are not the favourite because of our position but we create lots of chances and someone like him, a goalscorer, would relish being here. “We have also enquired with Watford about striker Uche Ikpeazu but he will not be joining us. “We need strength up front, another option. We have good players here and we are scoring goals but I am looking for another dimension in our game. We want someone who is good in the air, can get on the end of the excellent crosses we put in. “We have a few options and we continue to look at the options available.” When asked whether it was frustrating not to have completed some business ahead of the game, the Head Coach said, “We might still complete business ahead of the Celtic game but it is unlikely now. “It is not frustrating that we have to wait because I understand the situation. We are a club at the bottom of the table and it will take a strong character to want to come to us right now but that is what I am looking for.” TEAM NEWS “Durnan and Demel are suspended but we have no new injury worries. “Paul Paton is fit and has been training and looking good. He is a solid defensive midfielder. He is a player who is good to have within the team because of his talking and his demands. He’s a leader and strong in the challenge. He’s an important player. “The squad are in a good frame on mind, we have trained well and we are raring to go.” The match, which is available via ArabZONE live stream as well as live on BT Sport, kicks off at 7.45pm tomorrow, Friday 15th January and tickets are on sale from the Ticket Centre until 5pm on the day of the game.