Dylan Tait signs permanent Dundee United deal under Jim Goodwin

Dylan Tait has made his move to Dundee United permanent after rejecting English interest, becoming a central figure in a midfield trio driving the club's push up the Premiership table.

Dylan Tait has confirmed his permanent move to Dundee United after rejecting summer interest from England, a decision that is paying dividends for a side currently fifth in the Premiership with 17 points from five wins, two draws and four losses. The 24-year-old midfielder, who had been on loan from Falkirk, turned down concrete offers from Barnsley and Plymouth Argyle to commit his future to Jim Goodwin's project at Tannadice.

Tait's journey to this point included spells at Raith Rovers and Hibernian, but it was a successful three-year rise with Falkirk that put him on the radar. Dundee United's interest became serious last January, and after visiting the club's facilities and speaking with Goodwin, Tait decided to see out the season with Falkirk before making his choice. He stated that the size of the club, the manager's vision, and the passionate fanbase were the decisive factors in his move.

Midfield impact

Since his arrival, Tait has slotted into a dynamic, young midfield alongside Zidane Iqbal and Lyall Cameron. This trio has been instrumental in United's improved form, which sees them on 17 points from 11 games, with a goal difference of plus four having scored 17 and conceded 13. Tait feels he is entering his prime years and is relishing his football, aiming to help maintain the positive atmosphere around the squad. His influence was clear in the recent 3-2 win over Aberdeen, where he provided two assists and scored a goal himself.

United's recent results, including a hard-fought 2-2 draw at Celtic Park where Neil Farrugia and Zachary Sapsford scored, demonstrate the team's resilience. Their form over the last five matches stands at one win, two draws and two losses. They face a quick return to action with an away trip to face St Johnstone, who are seventh, this Saturday 7 November. The fixture list shows a challenging run ahead, and the form of Tait and his midfield partners will be key to United's hopes of staying in the European conversation. The club sits just 11 points behind leaders Celtic, a position that validates Tait's decision to build his career in Scotland.

Looking forward, Tait dreams of representing his country but is fully focused on delivering consistent performances for Dundee United. He believes the demands at Tannadice will stand him in good stead for any future opportunities. The immediate task is to build on the current momentum, starting with the match against St Johnstone on November 7th. The team will look to top scorer Zachary Sapsford, who has three goals this season, to continue contributing in attack.