First Team

DAVE RICHARDS ARRIVES

7th June 2024

Dundee United are delighted to announce the signing of Dave Richards from EFL League Two outfit Crewe Alexandra, as the goalkeeper arrives at the club on a two-year deal, subject to international clearance.

A Welsh native, Richards began his career with Cardiff City, with various loan spells in and around the south east punctuating a four-year stint in the capital city. During his time with the Bluebirds, he also served as an understudy to storied Scotland stopper David Marshall.

Two seasons with Bristol City proceeded a permanent switch to Crewe Alexandra, and the 30-year-old has spent almost a decade at Gresty Road as an influential member in the dressing room. The 2021/22 campaign brought his best taste of regular action between the sticks, making 32 appearances in a rare stint in League One for the Railwaymen.

He enjoyed his first venture into Scottish football last term, aiding St Johnstone’s efforts to remain in the top flight as part of a successful goalkeeping unit alongside Saints star man Dimitar Mitov and Ross Sinclair.

Our second arrival of the summer window looks to challenge for the Terrors’ number one jersey throughout the season, whilst providing a wealth of experience to both the goalkeeping department and wider first team environment.

I’M HERE TO DRIVE STANDARDS

An excited Richards commented: “I’m absolutely over the moon to get this over the line. I haven’t heard anything but brilliant things from other players about this football club.

“The people in Scotland have welcomed me with open arms since my arrival last August - as soon as this opportunity arose I wanted to jump on it straight away!”

He continued: "I’m looking forward to meeting the boys so we can all work hard and push each other for that number one spot. Good competition breeds good performances and I’m here to drive standards.

"I want give everything for this football club and hit the ground running as soon as possible."

EXPERIENCE WE COULDN’T OVERLOOK

United Manager Jim Goodwin echoed the eagerness to get started working with his new recruit, adding: “Dave’s experience in the senior game was something we couldn’t overlook when building a well-balanced playing group ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.

“He’ll provide stiff competition for the starting spot between the sticks next term, while he will also be another reliable, senior voice for me to lean on in the dressing room."

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

Hear from the Tannadice new boy as he speaks exclusively with DUTV after penning his United deal!