Jim Goodwin enduring 'toughest period' as Dundee United boss

Jim Goodwin said he’s going through his “toughest period” as Dundee United manager, as the Tangerines look to end a six-game winless run.

The 44-year-old, who secured the Championship title and European football in his first two full seasons in charge, has seen his side slip to eighth in the table.

Ahead of this weekend’s clash with in-form Motherwell, the Irishman admitted recent results are having an impact on the players.

Jim Goodwin admits confidence has taken a hit STV News

“I think it’s only natural when you’re on they type of run we are, that confidence is going to take a bit of a hit,” he said

“We believe what we’re doing at this football club, we believe in the recruitment model we put in the place in the summer.

“I signed all these players because I know they’re good players and I think over the course of the season, up to now, they’ve shown that.

“We are going through the toughest period I’ve experienced as United manager.”

Jim Goodwin has had to contend with some controversial refereeing decisions this season, including a penalty against Kilmarnock, and some high profile player errors, namely goalkeeper Yevhenii Kucherenko, who has since been out of the side with a calf injury.

But the Tannadice boss is taking full responsibility for the club’s drop in form.

“At the end of the day, I’m the manager and the buck stops with me,” said Goodwin.

“It’s up to me to get the players to perform to the level we think they’re capable of.

“That’s only through hard work.”

Amongst the gloom, there have been moments of real quality at Tannadice.

Amar Fatah was recently named man of the match in a draw with Rangers STV News

21-year-old Amar Fatah put them seconds away from victory against Rangers last week, and the young Swede believes fans haven’t seen the best of him yet.

“I think I’m capable of more, much more to bring to the team,” said the on-loan winger.

“Rangers was just a glimpse of what I can do, hopefully I can keep on doing it.”

Dundee United are likely to be without key midfielder Pan Camara until after Christmas.

A short term injury, but an absence Jim Goodwin describes as “huge”, as he desperately seeks a win.