MICHAEL CAIRNEY APPOINTED HEAD OF RECRUITMENT

Dundee United are pleased to announce the appointment of Michael Cairney as the club’s Head of Recruitment.

Michael arrives at Tannadice boasting a wealth of experience in scouting and recruitment, most recently with London-based investment giants Sport Republic, who currently possess an 80% stake in Southampton amongst other elite-level European clubs. 

After cutting his teeth in the world of talent ID with various positions across the EFL pyramid, Michael landed a scouting role with Eredivisie outfit FC Twente. During his time working with the Tukkers, they secured their return to the European stage for the first time in seven years with a fourth-place finish in the top flight.

Subsequently, he was named League Two side Doncaster Rovers' Head of Scouting in the summer of 2022. The 30-year-old’s stint in Yorkshire saw him responsible for leading a team of ten nationwide scouts scouring the country for potential targets.

On a day-to-day basis, he will be tasked with utilising his keen eye for detail and intimate knowledge of both the British and European market to pinpoint future members of our first team, whilst ensuring the overarching recruitment process aligns with our football department strategy.

'WORK IS ALREADY UNDERWAY'

Speaking on his appointment, Michael commented: "I am delighted to be joining a club of the size and stature of Dundee United. It was an opportunity that I could not turn down after having discussions with both the Chief Executive and the Board of Directors. Helping the club fulfil its ambitions over the coming seasons is a challenge I will relish."

"It's a really exciting time to be joining the club - we have a bit of a blank canvas and an excellent opportunity to implement some new structures and processes. Work has been underway for several weeks on identifying some key targets and enhancing our recruitment strategy moving forward."

'A KEY FIGURE IN OUR PROCESS'

Chief Executive, Luigi Capuano, added: "At the outset of this season, both the Manager and I were clear in our process of recruitment, which was focused on acquiring players who were previously successful in attempts to get out of the cinch Championship."

"Having secured our Premiership status, the strategy has now shifted to building a squad that can be competitive in the top flight next term, and we perceive Michael and the Head of Recruitment position overall to be a key figure in this process.

He continued: Looking at the long-term future of this area of the club, the construction of a Recruitment Department is of paramount importance, as this will play a pivotal role in the club's efforts to develop players at Tannadice as part of our player trading model.

"Speaking on behalf of the Board of Directors, we are committed to ensuring our success both on and off the pitch persists."