Dundee United captain Ross Graham has been told his chance will come as he waits patiently for a return to the starting lineup. Manager Jim Goodwin has praised the academy graduate's professionalism amid strong competition for places in a squad sitting fourth in the Premiership standings.
Graham, who wore the armband last season, has featured only once this term, in the Premier Sports Cup against Montrose, playing just 45 minutes. The 24-year-old's attitude in training has been exemplary according to his manager, who values his long-standing connection to the club. "He's a great character around the place and is very well liked within the dressing room," Goodwin said, adding that Graham's commitment is total, with the club's success remaining his primary interest whether he is on the pitch or not.
Squad competition
The defensive picture has changed this season with Dundee United shifting to a back four. New signings Bert Esselink and Michael Forbes have established themselves as the first-choice central defensive partnership, creating intense competition. Moldova international Iurie Iovu is also fighting for minutes, leaving Graham and others needing to bide their time. Goodwin acknowledged the recruitment has created real depth, which he sees as vital for a club that has taken 13 points from its first eight games. The manager is confident the defender will grab any opportunity with both hands, with his readiness adding to the options for a team looking to build on a recent run of form that has seen them win three of their last five league matches.
Injury latest
Ahead of Saturday's high-profile home match against second-placed Rangers fixtures, Goodwin confirmed Will Ferry and Medhi Merghem remain unavailable injuries. Ferry is managing a minor issue that the club are being careful with, while Merghem could potentially return to the group in the build-up to the Aberdeen game later this month. Graham is understood to be disappointed not to be playing regularly but is not the type to cause disruption. He has knuckled down in training, setting an example for the wider squad.
The captain's situation shows the increased competition within a group that Goodwin believes is stronger than last season. With the team preparing for a challenging fixture against Rangers, the manager values having a player of Graham's stature and professionalism ready to contribute, even if his minutes have been severely limited so far. Ross Graham will continue to train and wait for his moment, with his professionalism ensuring he remains a key figure in the Dundee United dressing room.
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Manager Jim Goodwin confirmed on October 15 that Will Ferry's absence is now expected to extend beyond the weekend. "Will Ferry looks like he might be out for a little bit longer," Goodwin said, explaining the club is being careful with a recurring issue. The update comes as the fourth-placed side, with 13 points from 8 games, prepares to host Rangers. Goodwin reiterated that Medhi Merghem is also out, but could return before the Aberdeen match later this month.
