Ashley Hay has signed a new two-year contract with Dundee United, a deal that includes a club option to extend his stay until 2029. The 23-year-old striker's extension comes after he scored a stoppage-time winner at Falkirk, underlining his growing importance to a side sitting fourth in the Premiership standings with 13 points from eight games. Hay's recent form has been a bright spot, with his key goal at Falkirk contributing to a run where the team has taken seven points from their last four league matches.
Head coach Steven Pressley, who previously worked with Hay at Brentford B, highlighted the player's development. "I knew Ash from my time at Brentford," Pressley said. "I saw him close hand and he was a player who always had really good potential." Hay has scored eight goals since joining from Brentford in July 2025, adapting well to the demands of first-team football. His goal contributions are a key part of the team's attacking stats, and his new contract provides stability ahead of a key home fixtures against second-placed Rangers this weekend.
Pressley pointed to Hay's physical improvement and connection with supporters as key factors. "He provides us with great speed and mobility and he is very good in the air," the manager noted. "He works extremely hard for the team and as a result of that he has created a really strong bond with our support." The new deal secures a player who was set to become a free agent this summer, providing stability as the club prepares for a home match against second-placed Rangers.
This contract is part of a broader push for squad continuity. Sporting director David Longwell is in discussions with several other players whose deals expire soon, including Imari Samuels, Drey Wright, and captain Simon Murray, as the club looks to secure the core of its squad. Hay's commitment is a positive step for a team looking to build on its current league position, where they trail leaders Celtic by eight points. The striker will now focus on adding to his goal tally, with his next opportunity coming against Rangers at Tannadice, a match that could see United close the gap on the top two.
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