Dundee United boss Goodwin analyses Hibs' new manager for home clash

Dundee United manager Jim Goodwin is analysing Hibs' new boss Marink Reedijk ahead of Saturday's match, with the sides separated by just one point in the league.

Jim Goodwin is analysing the tactical history of Hibernian’s new manager Marink Reedijk ahead of Dundee United’s key Premiership clash at Tannadice this Saturday. The fixture is a key test for Goodwin’s side, who sit fourth on 10 points, as they aim to turn their home ground into a reliable source of points.

Goodwin confirmed his staff have been studying Reedijk’s time at Belgian side Bevern, where he led the team to an unbeaten Second Division title last season. "We will definitely look back at how he played at Beveren and other previous clubs," the Dundee United boss said. The 34-year-old Reedijk, whose senior coaching experience is limited to Belgium’s Challenger Pro League, succeeded David Gray last month and will make his Scottish top-flight debut this weekend.

Form and preparation

Dundee United’s need for a strong home performance is underlined by their recent results. They come into the match off the back of a convincing 3-0 away win over St Mirren, a performance Goodwin wants to replicate. However, their home form has been inconsistent, with defeats to Dundee and Celtic this season. "It will be an interesting one because obviously they have a new manager in now," Goodwin noted, acknowledging the challenge of facing a side with fresh instructions.

The manager also stated his desire to make Tannadice a 'home banker', a task made more pressing with just one point separating United and Hibs in the table. Both teams have conceded 11 goals in seven games. United rank third in the league for accurate crosses and fourth for average shots on target, suggesting they have the tools to create chances.

Key battles and history

Individual impact could be decisive, with Jesse Randall involved in 44% of Dundee United’s league goals this season despite only four starts. Historical trends point to an entertaining match, with both teams scoring in each of the last nine league meetings, averaging nearly four goals per game. Hibs are unbeaten in six against United, but Goodwin’s men will be buoyed by their current league position and recent away form.

With the teams so closely matched on metrics like expected goals and touches in the opposition box, Saturday’s game represents an early-season acid test for both managers. Dundee United’s immediate focus then shifts to an away match against 11th-placed Falkirk on 10 October.