Will Ferry could be set to leave Dundee United after the club accepted a transfer bid worth £1.7 million.

A top-flight outfit in the Czech Republic has reportedly become the first club to meet United’s asking price for the wing-back.

Advanced talks will now begin with Ferry and his representatives, although the wing back might not accept personal deal terms.

Ferry has been one of United’s most consistent performers, playing virtually every minute of the last two campaigns for the club.

The 25-year-old ended last season with nine assists, four goals and his international debut for Ireland.

Interest in Ferry has been mounting for a while.

He previously captured the attention of the MLS’ Vancouver Whitecaps, who tabled a rejected bid for Ferry in January, with Los Angeles FC also expressing interest.

Blackburn Rovers, Charlton Athletic and Derby County have been among English outfits closely monitoring Ferry.

It is understood that Ferry’s preference would be a move across the Atlantic.

The wingback, who has one year left on his contract, is widely expected to be one of the club’s pre-season exits as United looks to capitalise on his development – but manager Jim Goodwin has stressed that they would only let him go if the price was right.

Last month, United turned down a deal worth £900,000 for Ferry. In January, they turned down a £700,000 bid from Vancouver Whitecaps.

Ferry came to Tannadice in summer 2024 on a free transfer from Cheltenham Town.

Ferry missing from training

Will Ferry currently isn’t training with the Dundee United squad, which the club have said was to allow him some time to consider his options.

But a hastily deleted social media post from Ferry has hinted at unhappiness.

Absent from training on Monday, he posted a photo on a golf course, captioned: “Not how I expected to be spending my pre-season, let’s hope the golf keeps me fit.”

Ferry has previously been open about struggling to deal with the uncertainty of interest from other clubs.

Speaking in May, he told the Record: “If there is interest in the summer then I definitely feel like I would deal with it better. I am not going to hide from the fact that I struggled a little bit.

“Whether it was a conscious or not, but it might have been more subconscious on dealing with what was going on. People will put two and two together with some performances and maybe how I came across.

“I would definitely be in a better place almost not to think about it now. Not let it affect me, but I will cross that bridge if I get there. The good thing is now I know how to deal with certain challenges in my career. I am definitely in a better place.”

Dundee United midfielder Julius Eskesen is set to leave Tannadice over the summer amid European interest.

Eskesen, who is contracted with United until 2027, has struggled to forge a place for himself in the starting XI since joining the club last summer.

The 26-year-old has made just three starts in 18 appearances for the club.

Despite flashes of creativity, which saw Eskesen find the back of the net twice last season, it is unlikely that he would be a regular starter for the Terrors next season.

Instead United are understood to be willing to facilitate a move which would allow Eskesen to join a club who want to give him regular game time.

The Dane has several suitors, with Swedish top-flight outfit GAIS interested in securing his signature when their transfer window opens on July 9.

According to The Courier, Eskesen’s former side Haugesund and fellow Norwegian outfit Stromsgodset are also monitoring his situation.

With new arrival Dylan Tait taking over the No. 10 jersey, and Eskesen absent from pre-season training, an exit deal appears imminent.

West Ham United youngster Michael Forbes has joined Dundee United.

The Northern Ireland international, 22, is United’s sixth summer signing.

The 6ft 2” centre-back fills a position left vacant by the departed Krisztian Keresztes.

He arrives at Tannadice on a two-year deal, with a club-held option for a third year.

Forbes’ capture follows Jesse Randall, Lachie Rose, Joshua Rawlins, Jack Walton and Dylan Tait in committing to the Tangerines.

Dundee United manager Jim Goodwin said: “Michael is a player we’ve admired for some time and we’re delighted to bring him to Dundee United.

“He possesses all the attributes you look for in a modern defender. He’s physically strong, dominant in the air, comfortable on the ball and has shown real leadership qualities throughout his development.

“For someone still so young, he already has valuable experience at both club and international level, and we believe there’s significant room for further growth in his game.”

Forbes added: “I felt this was the right move at the right stage of my career. The club’s ambitions match my own and I’m looking forward to taking on a new challenge and showing what I can do.

“The opportunity to test myself in the Scottish Premiership and work under the manager and coaching staff here was something that really appealed to me.

He added: “I can’t wait to play in front of the supporters at Tannadice and hopefully create some special memories over the next few years.”

Dundee United’s star youngster Kai Hutchinson is set to join Everton after turning down a senior deal at Tannadice.

Despite the 16-year-old being offered professional contract, Hutchinson has told the club that he intends to continue his development at the Toffees’ academy.

United have been keen to keep Hutchinson, inviting him to train and travel with the first team in recent months and regularly fielding him in their SPFL Trust Trophy side in an attempt to keep him at Tannadice.

However, their efforts were not enough to stop the teenager having his head turned by opportunities south of the Border.

According to the Daily Record, he is now set to sign a three-year deal with Everton.

The clubs are yet to agree a fee, with United having turned down six figures for the youngster in the past.

Since Brexit restricted UK club’s ability to shop for players across the EU, English Premier League and Championship clubs have been increasingly turning to Scotland to search for young talent.

Hutchinson is the fifth Dundee United youngster to leave the club for an offer down South — although the moves hasn’t always paid off in the long term.

At the end of this season, two former Dundee United starlets were released by their English clubs.

Kerr Smith and Brandon Forbes are now free agents after being freed by Aston Villa and Norwich City respectively.

Smith joined Villa in 2022 for a free worth up to £2million to United, initially joining up with their U23 side.

The now 21-year-old did not make a senior appearance for Villa, instead being loaned out to St Johnstone and Barrow.

Meanwhile Forbes captured the attention of Norwich City after a successful season with United’s U18s and scoring on his debut appearance for the first team — a blistering free kick in a 2-1 League Cup victory against Ayr United in 2024.

Forbes was also immediately signed up for the Canaries, however he did not make a senior appearance for the club before becoming a free agent this summer.

Goalkeeper Dave Richards will leave Dundee United after rejecting a new deal with the club.

The smiling Welshman has been United’s No. 2 for the past two seasons and has been called upon at crucial moments to put on the gloves.

Richards made 19 appearances in United’s 25/26 campaign, replacing error-prone Yevhenii Kucherenko and stepping in again when Ashley Maynard-Brewer’s season ended prematurely due to injury.

United offered Richards a contract extension to secure his services next season.

However, Richards has now rejected that offer to explore other options, which reportedly includes interest from Aberdeen.

Former Tannadice shotstopper Jack Walton will return as United’s No. 1 next season.

A move that was months in the making, Walton has penned a three-year deal to provide some much-need stability between the sticks.

United retain the services of Academy graduate Ruairidh Adams, however it is likely that the 21-year-old keeper will go back out on loan next season.

Meanwhile Ashley Maynard-Brewer was released after United opted not to take up the two-year option on his deal.

Signing at the end of January, Maynard-Brewer replaced Kucherenko as United’s No. 1 before a dislocated shoulder cut his season short in April.

While Kucherenko initially looked like a lively option, his mistakes proved too costly, setting the unfortunate record of being the only United goalkeeper to score three own goals in a single season.

He was shipped off to the Greek Super League side in January, joining Panetolikos FC.

However, the 26-year-old finished his campaign on a high, being named the league’s goalkeeper in the league’s team of the season.

Dundee United have rejected an offer worth £900,000 for Will Ferry.

Ferry, who has entered the final year of his contract with the club, is widely expected to leave Tannadice over the summer if the price is right.

Clubs in Slovakia and Czech Republic have expressed an interest in Ferry and, as initially reported by The Courier, one of them has made an opening offer.

However, United are holding out for a seven-figure fee for the 25-year-old.

A consistent performer who has played virtually every minute of game time for United since he started, Ferry finished this latest season with four goals and nine assists under his belt.

Last month he made his debut on the international stage with his first outing for the Ireland national team in a friendly against Grenada.

The wingback is not short of suiters, both south of the Border and across the pond.

Blackburn Rovers and Charlton Athletic both have an established interest in the Ferry, with Derby County recently joining the list of English Championship outfits who could make a move for his signature.

He is also on the radar of the MLS again as Los Angeles FC — where former Hibs defender Ryan Porteous now plays — have expressed interest ahead of their transfer window opening on July 13.

Last summer United rejected a bid for Ferry from the MLS’ Vancouver Whitecaps because it was too low.

Manager Jim Goodwin has previously described Ferry as one of United’s best signings and has hinted that the club is braced for interest for him in the coming weeks.

He previously said: “I think Will’s opportunity to one day move on to bigger things may well happen. Our whole recruitment philosophy is geared around that strategy of signing young players that have room for development. He is a good example.

“We brought Will up from Cheltenham and he turned out to be one of the star performers in the Premiership.”

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Transfer latest:

🖋️Falkirk midfielder Dylan Tait is coming to Tannadice. Tait, 24, has signed a three-year deal with United after turning down an extension at Falkirk and offers from English clubs.

🧤Goalkeeper Jack Walton is returning for the third time. Walton, 28, has signed a three-year deal with Dundee United. It comes after two successful loan spells with the club.

📤The Tannadice summer exodus began earlier this month, with Johnny Russell leading a list of 15 exits. Kristijan Trapanovski, Ryan Strain and Ashley Maynard-Brewer were also among the out-of-control players who were not offered new deals.

The club is not expected to take up its options to buy on Krisztian Keresztes or Ivan Dolcek either. United offered a new contract to Dave Richards, although it is thought that Richards will leave United and could even be headed for Aberdeen instead.

A full list of comings and goings can be found here.

🎯Derby are among the list of clubs interested in taking Will Ferry to the English Championship (The Daily Record). Charlton Athletic and Blackburn Rovers are also in the picture. Ferry, who made his debut for the Ireland national team this month, is widely expected to leave Tannadice over the summer.

Premier Sport Cup draw revealed

Dundee United will face Stirling Albion, Montrose, Arbroath and The Spartans in the group stages of the Premier Sports Cup, featuring some ludicrous Saturday kick off times.

1. Saturday, July 11 (5.30pm): Stirling Albion v Dundee United*

2. Tuesday, July 14 (7:45pm): Montrose v Dundee United

3. Saturday, July 18 (7pm): Dundee United v Arbroath*

4. Tuesday, July 21 (7:45pm): Dundee United v The Spartans

*Live on Premier Sports

International duty:

Dario Naamo made his international debut for Iraq on Friday as he hopes to earn a spot in the side’s World Cup squad. Naamo, 20, came off the bench after 65 minutes in a 1-0 victory over Andorra.

Emmanuel Agyei has made his senior debut for Ghana. Agyei played 75 minutes as Ghana fell to a 2-0 defeat against El Tri last Saturday. Time will tell whether his first international outing will be enough for him to stake a claim in the World Cup squad.

Academy rising star Lorenzo Sassetti, 15, marked his first appearances for Italy’s U/15 side with two goals in as many games. Sassetti, who is already a regular for United’s Under 19s, has played for Scotland’s Under 15s (he’s the youngster who scored that overhead kick). I suspect we won’t get to see this one at Tannadice …

In other news:

Luca Stephenson has gushed about his two seasons on loan at United in an in-depth interview with The Courier (£). The 22-year-old said that manager Jim Goodwin helped him find a “new belief” in himself by throwing him straight into the starting line-up, adding: “If any of the [Liverpool] boys get a sniff of a move to United, I’ll drive them up there myself to get it done!”

Stephenson is set to find a permanent home in the English Championship next season. Bolton Wanderers, who are currently enjoying former United loanee Sam Dalby, are reportedly closing in on his signature (The Bolton News).

A departing Craig Sibbald has said he regrets the “stupid” transfer photo when his deal with Falkirk was announced (The Courier, £). Sibbald, who got a heartfelt reception from United supporters at the end of his final game against St Mirren, said: “I have always appreciated the fans at Dundee United and they have been brilliant with me.”

Two former Dundee United youngsters have been released by their English clubs several years after high-profile deals. Kerr Smith, 21, and Brandon Forbes, 19, are now free agents after being freed by Aston Villa and Norwich City. Forbes made one senior appearance for United, scoring a blinder of a free kick against Ayr United.

Australian international Ryan Strain, who was released from Dundee United this month, is already attracting interested from the A-League (The Courier, £).

Sam Dalby has said he will “always be grateful” for his time at Dundee United after a heroic performance at Wembley Stadium, which ended Bolton’s seven-year wait for Championship football. “I look back on my time at United so fondly. I absolutely loved it and it’ll always be a special place for me,” Dalby told The Courier (£). “That club 100% gave me the platform to show what I can really do.”

United’s ill-fated former keeper Yevhenii Kucherenko has been named goalkeeper of the year for the Greek Super League. Yes, really.

And finally …

The Tannadice turf took a bit of flack this season. Weeks of biblical rain, combined with a game against Hearts which only went ahead because it was on the telly, the pitch was looking a bit worse for wear in January.

Despite having been restored to its usual bowling green standards by the final home game of the season, it’s now being ripped up and replaced ahead of the 26/27 campaign.

Head groundsman Jamie Harle has the drone shots …

Dylan Tait is heading to Tannadice after a month-long battle for his signature.

The 24-year-old has accepted a three-year deal with United weeks after the club initially tabled the offer.

The midfielder turned down offers in England and the chance to stay at Falkirk.

United made the midfielder one of their top summer targets, though they weren’t alone. He also fielded interest from Barnsley, Plymouth Argyle and Luton Town.

Tait first joined Falkirk on loan from Hibernian in January 2023.

He joined the club permanently the following summer, where he was a crucial part of the Bairns squad which secured back to back titles and a return to top flight football.

He made more than 100 appearances and scored 13 goals for the club.

Falkirk confirmed Tait’s exit on Wednesday night.

A club spokesperson said: “The club has been in discussion with Dylan and his agent for a number of months, however the midfielder has chosen to pursue opportunities elsewhere.

“Dylan has created and shared in moments that will live long in the memory of everyone connected with the club, and he will always be remembered as part of a special Falkirk side. He leaves with the club’s sincere thanks and best wishes.”

Tait will be United’s fifth summer signing, following the return of goalkeeper Jack Walton and the signing of three A-League stars: Jesse Randall, Joshua Rawlins, and Lachlan Rose.

Dundee United have been drawn alongside Arbroath, Montrose, The Spartans, and Stirling Albion in the Premier Sports Cup.

United were the second team drawn from pot one to head up Group B.

United’s first competitive fixture of the season will take place on the weekend of July 11 and 12, with venues and TV selections to be confirmed by the SPFL.

The rest of the group matches will be completed across July 14/15, July 18/19, July 21/22 and July 25/26.

While European ties meant United skipped the group stage last season, they were immediately knocked out by Kilmarnock in a 2-1 defeat at Rugby Park.

The club’s most return trip to Hampden in the League Cup was in 2015, where they lost 2-0 to Celtic in the final.

Since then, they have not progressed past the quarter finals.

Some optimistic dates for the diary

If United progress from the group stages, the second round will be held on the weekend of August 15 and 16.

The quarter final will be held the weekend of September 12/13, the semi-final will take place on the weekend of October 31/November 1, and the final will take place on Sunday, December 13.

Goalkeeper Jack Walton is “absolutely delighted” to be returning to Dundee United.

Walton, who previously enjoyed two successful loan spells at the club, has confirmed that he will be back at Tannadice in the summer.

The keeper, previously at Preston North, has signed with United on a three-year deal — keeping him at the club until 2029.

As previously reported by the Dispatch, United had been keen to secure Walton’s services as they seek to rebuild their goalkeeping department.

Read more: Return of the Jack? United hunt for a new No. 1

Walton said: “I’m absolutely delighted to be back. Dundee United is a club that means a lot to me and from the moment I left, I always hoped there would be an opportunity to return one day.

“We achieved some incredible things together over the two seasons I was here and I’ve got brilliant memories of my time here already.

“Winning promotion and then helping the club achieve European football made it a really special period for everybody connected with Dundee United.

“As soon as I became aware of the opportunity to come back, it was something I really wanted to make happen. I can’t wait to get started again and play in front of the supporters at Tannadice once more.”

Manager Jim Goodwin added: “Jack was exceptional for us across the two seasons he was here and bringing him back to the football club was something we were extremely keen to make happen.

“His performances, consistency and leadership qualities made him one of the standout goalkeepers in the country during his time here previously. He has a real connection with the supporters and understands exactly what is expected when representing Dundee United.

“He brings calmness and authority to the defensive unit, while his professionalism and mentality set a fantastic example around the training ground every single day.

“Importantly, he already knows the standards and expectations we have as a group.”

Former Dundee United goalkeeper Jack Walton is among the club’s targets as they search for a new goalkeeper, sources have suggested.

Walton, who came to Tannadice on loan from Luton Town, made 85 appearances across two seasons.

He helped United secure promotion from the Championship and a fourth-place finish in the Premiership the following season.

After being released from his parent club at the end of the 2024/25 campaign, Walton joined English Championship outfit Preston North End, where he kept the bench warm until joining Cambridge United on a short-term emergency loan in April.

Now United are reportedly exploring if Walton, who is currently under contract with Preston until 2028, could be brought back for a third spell at the club.

Richards on the move

Smiling substitute keeper Dave Richards was notably absent from the list of Tannadice departures earlier this week, despite being out of contract at the end of the month.

Richards made 19 appearances this campaign, compared to four the previous season.

While United have offered Richards a new deal, it is understood that the No. 2 wants to head elsewhere, with Aberdeen leading the list of alternative suitors.

It is likely, then, that United will have to build its goalkeeping team up from scratch.

United have burned through two No 1s since Walton’s departure at the end of 2024/2025 campaign.

Ukranian shotstopper Yevhenii Kucherenko was shipped out in January after becoming the only United goalkeeper in the club’s history to concede three own goals in a single season.

Kucherenko — who, frustratingly, also showed flashes of real potential during his short tenure — ultimately lost his gloves to Richards due to the costly mistakes and it was clear that a fresh start was needed.

Australian international Ashley Maynard-Brewer was brought in on a six-month deal from Charlton Athletic.

He was instantly made first-choice keeper, going on to make 12 starts for the club before suffering a dislocated shoulder which ended his season.

United ultimately decided they hadn’t seen enough of Maynard-Brewer to activate the two-year option on his deal and released him.

Meanwhile Academy graduate Ruairidh Adams is yet to make a start for United’s senior team.

Following Maynard-Brewer’s season-ending injury, Adams was recalled from loan with East Fife in March to take Richard’s spot on the bench.

The club will want the 22-year-old back out on loan next season to continue his development.

Johnny Russell, Kristijan Trapanovski and Ashley Maynard-Brewer are among 15 players to leave Dundee United in another major summer exodus for the club.

Fan favourite Russell, 36, returned to Tannadice in March on a short-term deal. While supporters were delighted to welcome him back, a calf injury restricted him to just one start and seven substitute appearances during his brief return.

He signs off with 128 appearances and 45 goals for the club.

A successful Academy graduate, Russell played his first top-flight season for United at just 20 years old. After departing Tannadice for the first time in 2013, he enjoyed a career in the English Championship and in the United States, as well being capped 14 times for Scotland.

Trapanovski will also depart after 58 appearances over two seasons. The Macedonian had his season cut short over a knee injury which has required surgery. It was a frustrating end to what was an injury-plagued campaign for the winger, who managed just 18 appearances this season.

Goalkeeper Maynard-Brewer, who arrived from Charlton Athletic in February, similarly had his season disrupted by a dislocated shoulder. Currently recovering from surgery, United opted not to activate the two-year option on his deal.

One significant departure which was already known to fans was Craig Sibbald. The midfielder announced earlier this year that he had signed a pre-contract to return to boyhood club Falkirk in the summer.

Having joined United in 2022, he leaves after 112 appearances in Tangerine.

Ryan Strain, another player whose season was blighted by injury, revealed his departure on Monday.

Loanees Luca Stephenson and Amar Fatah both had their seasons cut short by injury and had already said their goodbyes to the club, however Max Watters, Krisztian Kereztes, Ivan Dolcek and ill-fated Issac Pappoe are also now due to depart.

Academy players Lewis O’Donnell, Lewis Haldane, Calvin Beattie and Harry Welsh have also been released.

A club spokesperson said: “Discussions remain ongoing with a number of players regarding their contractual situations, and the club will provide supporters with a further update in due course.”

As previously reported by the Dispatch, Ross Graham and Vicko Ševelj have had one-year contract extensions triggered.

The club remains in talks about longer-term deals with both players.

Back-up goalkeeper Dave Richards has been offered a new contract by United, however he is understood to be fielding interest from another club.

Ryan Strain has left Dundee United after two years at the club.

Strain is the second confirmed departure from United’s out of contract players, with the club yet to confirm all the players who have been released.

Earlier this year, midfielder Craig Sibbald announced that he would leave at the end of his deal to rejoin boyhood club Falkirk next season.

Kristijan Trapanovski, whose knee injury ended his season in March, is also out of contract, while United legend Johnny Russell’s six-month contract at the club is up.

United also have a big decision to make about who they want between the sticks in the long term. Injured Ashley Maynard-Brewer’s initial six-month deal coming to an end, while substitute keeper Dave Richard is also out of contract.

Strain came to Tannadice in 2024, leaving St Mirren to join newly-promoted United.

The Australian international came back from an achilles injury to make 29 appearances for the club as they grafted to secure fourth place and a European tour.

Injury struck Stain again in the opening half of this season, where knee and groin injuries forced him to the sidelines for months.

Battling back to fitness and regain his place in the starting line-up, the 29-year-old made 13 starts and 20 appearances for United in the 25/26 campaign.

He has been a more regular fixture in recent weeks, where the highlight of his season was his maiden goal for the club in the final post-split derby.

A well-placed header from the right-back rubber-stamped United’s 3-0 derby victory to secure bragging rights for the summer.

Strain’s celebration in front of the away support was the icing on the cake and a hint of the infectious personality which has endeared him to his teammates.

Strain had hinted at his uncertain future at the club last month, telling The Courier: “It’s been a frustrating year, personally.

“I’ve not had the game time I would have liked, and picking up a few injuries has been my downfall, really.”

He indirectly addressed his departure on social media today, writing: “Thank you, United! Some memories to last a lifetime.”

Australian attacker Zac Sapsford has described scoring the winning goal against Celtic at Tannadice as “the best feeling I’ve had in football”.

The striker ended his first season at Tannadice with 11 goals and 15 goal contributions overall.

Sapsford quickly found his feet in Scotland, scoring early against the likes of Rapid Vienna, Dundee, Rangers and Celtic.

While his performance dipped in the second half of the season, he scored three goals in his last seven appearances, including finding the back of the net against St Mirren to score United’s final goal of the 25/26 campaign.

The 23-year-old was recognised at the club’s Player of the Year awards, where he won Young Player of the Year and Goal of the Season.

Sapsford said: “That moment to win the game against Celtic was probably the best feeling I’ve had in football.

“Coming into Scottish football, I always knew that Celtic and Rangers were these powerhouse teams, so being able to beat Celtic at our home ground … everyone felt that.”

Sapsford also reflected on his own first season playing football halfway across the world.

He said: “I think I’ve grown as a player and as a person coming over here.

“I hit the ground running, and that always helps as an attacker to score goals early.

“I set goals for myself as an individual and I hit those this season. It’s my best return as a player of professional football.

“Hopefully I can get more next season.”

Manager Jim Goodwin fully expects Sapsford to enjoy a successful second season.

He said: “We’ve asked a lot of Zac over the season because of certain situations at certain times. We’ve been short of players at times, and he’s played pretty much every position across the front line.

“He always gives 100% and that was really good way for him to sign off, with a goal in the last game of the season. It’ll give him a bit of confidence and he’ll feel good about himself going into the close season.

“We’re expecting big things from Zac next season.”

Max Watters has been released by parent club Barnsley after spending a season on loan at Dundee United.

The League One outfit, who finished 15th this season, announced a list of retained players just a few hours before United kicked off against St Mirren in Paisley.

And Barnsley opted not to exercise the one-year option they had on Watters‘ deal.

Watters has had a really difficult season at United.

He started the campaign in fine form, scoring four goals in five games, before a hamstring injury put him on the sidelines for a couple of months.

When the 27-year-old returned from the treatment table, he struggled to find his form again.

By the time the season ended, he had scored five goals in 31 appearances — but only one goal since August.

Dundee United wingback Will Ferry is now an Ireland international, earning his first cap in a 5-0 victory over Grenada.

Ferry, who was a half-time substitute at the Estadio Enrique Roca in Murcia, made an immediate impact off the bench to set up the opening goal.

Within 60 seconds of coming on, Ferry played a characteristically incisive pass to Tom Cannon, who fired a low shot away to the open the first of five goals.

Although the friendly fixture falling outside of the international window, United granted Ferry permission to miss the club’s final game of the season.

Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrimsson said that United called the Ireland squad to offer Ferry after Joel Bagan pulled out due to injury.

He also speculated that part of United’s motivation for offering Ferry up was to increase his value in the upcoming transfer window.

Ahead of the game, Hallgrimsson said: “Dundee United called us and said he would be available.

“I think he is on the move, so they probably wanted him to have a cap, I don’t know.”

Ferry is entering the final season of a three-year deal with United and it is widely expected that, if the right offer comes in, the left wingback will leave over the summer.

In January, United knocked back a six-figure bid for Ferry from the MLS’ Vancouver Whitecaps.

Manager Jim Goodwin said: “We brought Will in when he was 22 and gave him the opportunity to raise his profile and to continue his development.

“He has developed well over the last couple of seasons. With that, there’s always going to come a little bit of attention.

“Every player in our squad has got a valuation. We’re no different to any other club out there. If the valuation is met, then there’s decisions that need to be made.

“If it’s not, then there’s no decision and Will Ferry will stay at Dundee United next season.”

With another major squad rebuild ahead, and a limited budget to do it, United have been keen to emphasise how coming to Tannadice has provided up and coming players an important platform to earn an international call-up.

Emmanuel Agyei was also granted permission to miss the final game of the season to travel to Ghana, where he hopes to earn a spot in the Black Stars’ World Cup squad.

Dario Naamo is also expected to be named in Iraq’s 33-man squad for an upcoming friendly against Andorra at the end of May after switching allegiance from Finland.

Will Ferry and Emmanuel Agyei will not feature in Dundee United’s last game of the season due to international commitments.

Ferry has been granted an early release by United to join the Ireland camp in the hope that he will make his full international debut in a friendly against Grenada on Saturday.

Meanwhile Agyei is seeking to earn himself a place in the Ghana squad ahead of the World Cup.

With United having already secured seventh place, it was decided that the pair could afford to miss out on Sunday’s curtain call match against St Mirren in Paisley.

Manager Jim Goodwin explained: “With the game on Sunday not being able to impact our league position, we didn’t want to stand in those players’ way of going and experiencing the international setup.”

He added: “We felt that – for what [Ferry] has given Dundee United, and me, over the last two seasons – we owed him the opportunity to go and stake a claim in the national team.”

Goodwin also credited United with creating a “huge opportunity” for Agyei as he received his first call-up to the Black Stars.

Goodwin said: “The reality is, this opportunity wouldn’t have come had he not come to Dundee United. He understands that. That’s what playing for a club like United – the stature of the club in a good league here – can do for all players looking to raise their profile.”

Other players missing the final clash of the season are Neil Farrugia, who took a knock during Tuesday’s lacklustre game against Livingston, and Dario Naamo, who is still nursing an injury he picked up at Pittodrie.

Goodwin hinted that this Sunday’s match would be a further opportunity for the squad’s more junior members to gain some game time.

Sam Cleall-Harding played the full 90 minutes against Livington on Tuesday, while Owen Stirton came off the bench to inject some life upfront, and Scott Constable made his Premiership debut.

Goodwin added: “The team that started on Tuesday won’t be the same team that starts on Sunday.

“There will be a few opportunities there for one or two members of the squad. We’re planning towards what next season looks like as well.”

Here’s a grim statistic: Dundee United haven’t defeated Kilmarnock at Rugby Park for a decade. Cast your minds back to this time time 10 years ago, visitors United beat Kilmarnock 2-4. United would come back from being 2-1 behind to score three goals the space of 15 minutes. Unfortunately the comeback was too little too late for the United team whose position at the bottom of the Premiership had already been rubberstamped. Since then? Well, it’s been a fairly thankless task for United’s travelling support.

That terrible away record remains intact after another fairly miserable performance in Ayrshire. Indeed, Kilmarnock can thank United for eight of their 31 points this season. What was a relatively meaningless fixture for United was a crucial game for Kilmarnock, who were hoping to capitalise on a return to form to narrowly avoid the relegation scrap. Three points for Kilmarnock cemented Livingston’s return to the Championship and, following a defeat against Dundee, dragged St Mirren down into the play-off spot instead.

If the last derby was a masterclass in everything United has gotten right this season, this game was a stark reminder of everything that has gone wrong. A defeat away to a Kilmarnock side who have everything to play for, on a pitch which closely resembles the worn-out carpet on my upstairs landing, is forgivable. Less so is the latest string of basic defensive errors to add to a longer list of backline eff ups. Our defenders have not covered themselves in glory this season and, while there have been some questionable individual performances, manager Jim Goodwin has got to own the role that his own tactics have played in that.

After Zac Sapsford fumbled a couple of early chances, the opening goal came from the hosts. A well-placed corner by Kilmarnock’s Greg Kiltie saw Robbie Deas move in quickly to tuck the ball away while Ross Graham and Max Watters were still scratching their heads over who they’re supposed to be marking. With keeper Dave Richards blocked in, Graham is far too slow off the mark and Watters looks how he has looked ever game for the past few months: absolutely aimless. Sapford would miss another opportunity to level the scoreline before half time, sending a well-placed ball from Neil Farrugia skying over the crossbar.

The second goal had much less to do with Kilmarnock and everything to do with United’s torrid defence. Krisztian Keresztes, a player whose infuriating attention span has tripped the team up a fair few times this season, fails to win a straightforward duel with Bruce Anderson when the ball is punted up the park. The lacklustre header away from Keresztes puts the ball directly into the path of Finlay Curtis, who bursts past a lost-looking Graham. Our captain is still flat on his arse by the time Curtis drives his shot home.

The third and final goal is the worst of the lot. It’s a simple but costly error from Sam Cleall-Harding, who short changes a basic pass back to his keeper. Joe Hugill is quick to punish the error, nipping in to poke the ball home and … well, it’s 3-0. It was the most embarrassing error of the 90 minutes but, with United doing very little to mount a comeback at the other end of the park, the 20-year-old can take comfort in the fact that his mistake was of no consequence to the overall game. “[Sam] has never let us down before this afternoon and we’re not going to dwell on this mistake,” Goodwin said. A bigger error, perhaps, is the failure to give Cleall-Harding some regular game time this season.

A slew of United substitutions saw a brief up-tick in performance in the closing 20 minutes. United came close to finding the net themselves through Craig Sibbald and Vicko Sevelj, although Hugill dragged wide a chance for a fourth Kilmarnock goal. Ivan Dolcek looked relatively dangerous and played well enough to earn worth more than the five minutes of game time that he is usually permitted. Owen Stirton — another youngster who has been stuck in the awkward spot between first team football and keeping the bench warm — came on for the final 10 minutes but was unable to add to his existing scoring record against Kilmarnock.

“We’re thoroughly disappointed to lose the game and to lose the goals in the manner did is the most disappointing part of it,” Goodwin lamented at full time. “We concede really soft goals from our perspective. All three goals were really bad.”

He added: “We know how difficult this fixture has been … I was delighted to hear that this pitch is going to be ripped up over the summer. We’ll have no more excuses when we come back down here next season if Kilmarnock manage to stay in the league.”

And so our cursed record at Rugby Park rumbles on.

🥇Man of the match: Probably Will Ferry, but it wasn’t a high bar.

🥈Runner-up: Pass.

🏅Honourable mentions: The ever-reliable Craig Sibbald also showed us exactly what they’re going to miss when he departs at the end of the season.

That wasn’t just in the minds of the fans, but in the minds of the team too. “How we drew the game at Dens six weeks ago was a bitter pill to swallow for everybody,” manager Jim Goodwin said. “I’d be lying if I said that wasn’t mentioned a few times in the build-up. We really wanted to make amends.”

Team news leading up to the fixture wasn’t exactly encouraging. Loanees, fan favourites and, more crucially, previous Derby scorers Luca Stephenson and Amar Fatah would miss the fixture and indeed the opportunity to finish their seasons at United due to respective hamstring injuries. Stephenson appeared on the pitch before kick-off to say his goodbyes to the United support for the final time. After two incredibly successful seasons, leaving to rapturous applause from a support who have adored him, the 22-year-old will return to parent club Liverpool to figure out what the future has in store for him – though, and we’d expect nothing less, he would be seen in celebrating in the tunnel with his teammates at full time.

However, this derby would turn out to be all about another man: Will Ferry. Our Vice Captain would find the back of the net twice – at least one of those on purpose – and tee up a fine header for Ryan Strain to kill off the game with a clean sheet intact. Did anyone have that on their coupon?

Ferry’s grit and determination to kick on has been an incredibly important part of United’s positive performances over the past two seasons, and that was before the wing-back discovered his penchant for putting away goals of his own — scoring his first United goal in a hugely enjoyable 2-0 win against Celtic in March. Asked where four goals in four games have come from, Ferry joked: “I don’t know, I’m prolific.”

While his tongue was firmly in his cheek, Ferry is undoubtedly United’s strongest and most consistent performer, and his season will end on a personal high. Watching him on throw-ins, corners and free kicks — with a scout for Charlton Athletic in the crowd to watch it all too — you can’t help but wonder how United begin to replace him if he is courted away in the summer. But, when you’re celebrating a derby victory, that has to be a worry for another day.

The first 45 minutes was relatively competitive. Ferry opened the scoring account in almost slapstick fashion when a shot from Zac Sapsford cannoned off his knee and deflected in off the post in agonising slow motion. A few minutes later, Iurie Iovu sprang into action to deny Dundee an equaliser, heading a cushioned volley from Luke Graham over his own crossbar after it had made it past the gloves of Dave Richards.

Rivalries were briefly set aside in the 16th minute to pay tribute to Dundee fan Lennon Thomson, who passed away just a few days before the derby. Lennon, who lived with cerebral palsy, was just 16 years old when he died and the minute of applause in his honour was a poignant reminder that both sides of the street will always come together when it counts.

Next Neil Farrugia came within inches of his first United goal with a low effort which was parried onto the woodwork by keeper Jon McCracken. Dundee’s Joe Westley did find the back of the net shortly before half time, but his effort was ruled out for a handball near the goal line and put Dundee supporters back into their seats as quickly as they had leapt out of them.

The second half remained on a knife-edge until the final third. A headed effort from Vicko Sevelj went inches over the bar. However, soon after, Ferry found the net again – this time in a significantly more deliberate fashion. Left wide open at the edge of the box, the Vice Captain collected a long pass from Sevelj and sent it effortlessly passed keeper McCracken, who watched the ball fizz past him as though his feet were nailed to the ground.

Two minutes later, it was Ferry again. Charging down the left flank, he left Westley in his dust to play a clipped cross to Ryan Strain who headed in his first goal for United. Strain, unable to find his partner and newborn daughter in the stands to celebrate with, settled for taunting Dundee supporters instead.

United fans who, having become overly with the team’s tendency to come undone in the dying minutes, masked some nervous excitement as the clock ticked down by asking Simon Murray to remind them of the score. When a last-gasp Yan Dhanda free kick spilled from the hands of Dave Richards and landed at the feet of Murray, Dundee looked almost certain to claw a goal back. However, some quick thinking from substitute Dario Naamo saw the ball safely back into the hands of Dave Richards and kept United’s clean sheet intact. Remind us of that score again, Simon?

It doesn’t get much better than this. With the last home game of the season against Livingston, whose relegation fate will almost certainly be sealed by then, the atmosphere of a sold-out home support basking in the glow of 3-0 victory against their nearest and dearest rivals feels like the best way to say goodbye to the class of 25/26. As Goodwin put it: “You can see how much it meant to supporters, I’m glad that the players could show the fans that it means just as much to them.”

And man of the match Will Ferry couldn’t resist taking a jab at the way the wee team up the road celebrated their 2-2 ‘victory’ a few weeks ago. “As much as we’re happy, we’re not going to celebrate like we’ve won the Champion’s League as some teams do,” the wingback said. “We’re just going to keep going to the end of the season and try to be as professional as possible.”

🥇Man of the match: Will Ferry. Our Vice Captain, trusty wingback, and soon-to-be top goal scorer.

🥈Runner-up: Despite only arriving in January, Emmanuel Ageyi comfortably looks like United’s best signing of the 25/26 season and looked like he very much enjoyed his first derby win.

🏅Honourable mentions: Ryan Strain has had a torrid season and struggled to get back in the squad after injury, so his maiden goal for United and subsequent Dee-riling celebration was a nice moment for him and the fans.

Ross Graham and Vicko Sevelj will both return to Tannadice next season, according to transfer reports.

Dundee United are set to trigger one-year options on both players.

Sevelj, described by his teammates as the “gaffer’s favourite”, has enjoyed a strong season, while Academy graduate Graham — named the squad’s captain despite still recovering from injury at when the season kicked off — has been a less consistent performer as United’s backline continues to leak goals.

Similar contract extensions are also available on Ryan Strain and Kristijan Trapanovski, who have both battled injuries this season.

Strain has struggled to get back in the squad, while Trapanovski’s 25/26 campaign is over as he awaits surgery for knee ligament damage.

United also hold a two-year option on goalkeeper Ashley Maynard-Brewer, who also is currently out of action due to a dislocated shoulder.

Will Ferry is expected to attract some suitors as he enters the final year of his deal at the club, while Craig Sibbald will depart at the end of the season after penning a three-year deal to return to his boyhood club Falkirk.

United have tied up some early transfer business with the pre-contract signings of two A-League stars: Lachlan Rose and Jesse Randall.

Talks have also begun with a third A-League star, Melbourne Victory right-back Joshua Rawlins.

Season over for Fatah and Stephenson?

Amar Fatah and Luca Stephenson are both waiting on the results on the scans which will determine whether their respective seasons are over.

Fatah left Tannadice on crutches after crumpling to the ground less than 15 minutes into the clash against Livingston.

You could almost hear the collective wail from the stands when Fatah hit the deck clutching his hamstring after attempting to catch a wayward pass from Vicko Sevelj.

Flanked by two United medics, Fatah struggled to walk off unaided and was later seen on crutches in the stands.

The 22-year-old has been one of the Premiership’s standout players this season and a real coup for United.

Meanwhile fellow loanee Stephenson, who picked up a hamstring injury in training, has been spent to a specialist amid fears he may have kicked his last ball for United.

The Liverpool loanee, who returned to Tannadice for a second season, faces an anxious wait to see if he will be fit to play again before the end of the season.

The 22-year-old fan favourite has quietly been one of United’s most consistent players, even leading the team out on one occasion.

Stephenson’s 24/25 campaign, which saw him named the club’s Young Player of the Year, also ended prematurely when he required surgery for a double hernia, which it emerged he had been playing through for months.

Manager Jim Goodwin said: “Luca picked up a knock in training on Wednesday, which ruled him out for [Livingston]. He’s going to go and see a specialist in the early part of the week.”

Ferry pays tribute to much-loved United fan Iona

Will Ferry dedicated his second ever goal for United to a young fan of the club who recently passed away.

Iona Stewart was just eight years old when she died after a two-year battle with a rare form of cancer.

Described by her father Iain as a “very happy little girl who especially enjoyed dancing and football”, Iona enjoyed visits from her favourite United players Ferry and Luca Stephenson while she was in hospital.

Fans at Tannadice paid tribute to Iona with applause in the 8th minute of Saturday’s game against Livingston with Iona’s father and sister in attendance.

Ferry later dedicated Saturday’s goal — his second ever for the club — to Iona and her family.

The Vice Captain told The Courier: “I spoke to Iona’s dad on Saturday morning, and I said I had a feeling I was going to score.

“I said I’d do my best for him and the family – hopefully by winning – so that just felt perfect.”

In other news:

• Manager Jim Goodwin swapped the dugout for the starting XI as he played in a charity match to raise cash for Alzheimer Scotland.

• Lee Wilkie: Why dangerous Dundee United will rack up goals in bottom six [The Courier, £]

• How Dundee and Dundee United have fared against ALL bottom-six rivals – and what it means for the run-in [The Courier, £]

• Tickets for the last Derby of the season are on sale now.