Dundee United appoint Michael Cairney as new head of recruitment

Dundee United have announced the appointment of Michael Cairney as the club’s new head of recruitment.

Cairney will take charge of building the clubs’ squad for their return to the Premiership next season as United’s signing strategy shifts focus after winning promotion.

The 30-year-old joins after a spell with investment company Sport Republic, who own a majority share in Southampton. Cairney has previously worked for Eredivisie side FC Twente as a scout, and was head of scouting at Doncaster Rovers.

United say he will be tasked with “utilising his keen eye for detail and intimate knowledge of both the British and European market to pinpoint future members of our first team, whilst ensuring the overarching recruitment process aligns with our football department strategy”.

Chief executive Luigi Capuano said: “At the outset of this season, both the manager and I were clear in our process of recruitment, which was focused on acquiring players who were previously successful in attempts to get out of the cinch Championship.

“Having secured our Premiership status, the strategy has now shifted to building a squad that can be competitive in the top flight next term, and we perceive Michael and the head of recruitment position overall to be a key figure in this process.

“Looking at the long-term future of this area of the club, the construction of a recruitment department is of paramount importance, as this will play a pivotal role in the club’s efforts to develop players at Tannadice as part of our player trading model.

“Speaking on behalf of the board of directors, we are committed to ensuring our success both on and on the pitch persists.”

Cairney said that the opportunity to move to Tannadice was one he couldn’t let pass him by and he revealed that work was already underway to identify summer signings.

“I am delighted to be joining a club of the size and stature of Dundee United,” he said. “It was an opportunity that I could not turn down after having discussions with both the chief executive and the board of directors.

“Helping the club fulfil its ambitions over the coming seasons is a challenge I will relish.

“It’s a really exciting time to be joining the club – we have a bit of a blank canvas and an excellent opportunity to implement some new structures and processes. Work has been underway for several weeks on identifying some key targets and enhancing our recruitment strategy moving forward.”