McCracken forces Smith rethink

DUNDEE UNITED manager Alex Smith has hinted that the ever-improving form of David McCracken may force him into a rethink on whether to sign Tommy Boyd.

Smith is keen to sign Boyd, who is out of contract, to add much-needed experience to his back line that has conceded 57 goals this season in the Scottish Premier League.

The manager's rave reviews came after the side beat local rivals Dundee 1-0 at Dens park and moved United up into 8th in the table.

"That's the best David McCracken has played for us," said Smith. "The way he (McCracken) is starting to play is giving me something to think about.

"The boy has now added aggression to his game, and it may be he'll be able to do the job alongside Jim Lauchlan for me."

The 20-year-old has made 22 appearances at Tannadice this season and has emerged as one of the most promising players from the club's academy.