Darren keen to join the party

Dundee United defender Darren Dods is determined to be a part of a successful Arabs side this season after missing out on the club's Hampden Park triumph last term.

In the absence of a new centre-back coming into Tannadice, experienced veteran Dods is expected to be given the responsibility of partnering Garry Kenneth at the back and filling the void left by the return of on loan Andy Webster to Rangers.

"Obviously we had that great end to the season, finishing third and winning the Scottish Cup," he told The Scotsman. "We all got a huge lift and obviously apart from Lee Wilkie, who had to retire because of his injuries, and Andy Webster, who went back to Rangers, we have exactly the same squad.

"Most of this squad is still young and have the potential to keep improving as well so it bodes well for the season," Dods continued.

"Garry and I did well at the tail end of last season whenever we played together because Andy was injured and also in the Rangers games when he couldn't play. This gives us a chance and, having played a number of games together it will give us a platform to get off to a good start."

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