United have brought Icelandic under-21 internationalist Thorim Kristjansson to Tannadice on trial. Despite still being a month shy of his 20th birthday, Kristjansson is a fixture for his country at U-21 level, with 18 appearances and seven goals. A versatile performer who can play both up front and in midfield, he was used almost exclusively in the latter role by his club Keflavik in the season past, scoring once in 16 games.

Former United regular Siggi Jonsson was among those impressed with his progress and it is on his recommendation that the Tangerines are giving the teenager a try-out. The Tannadice club have also taken a left winger north from England with manager Alex Smith hopeful that the new faces will prove to be of the required standard. "It has been obvious to people for a while that we need to strengthen the squad in certain key areas and we are working hard to do just that," he said. "I was very pleased with the contributions of our two new signings, Charlie Miller and Beto Naveda, at Motherwell and with a bit of luck the new lads will show themselves good enough to make a similar impact.

"The process of bringing people in on trial can be a time-consuming one but it is the right way to go, for when you look at a player abroad you know that he is talented but not whether he is suited to the demands of the Scottish game." Jean Licina, a player who earned himself a contract after impressing as a trialist, is likely to be recalled for the derby against Dundee at Tannadice. The Frenchman was rested for the Motherwell match at the weekend but will be needed again on Saturday because of the suspensions of both Jim Lauchlan and Jason de Vos. Smith said, "Jean did very well for us against both Celtic and Hibs, against quality players such as Chris Sutton and Russell Latapy, and was only taken out of the side for tactical reasons. "He is the obvious man to come in against Dundee, though we are well covered with the likes of Hasney Aljofree very comfortable in the middle."

While Licina is pressed into action, Canadian internationalist de Vos will be taking a rest on the suggestion of his club. "Jason is at a stage where he needs to recharge his batteries a little, having gone a long time without a break from football," said Smith. "Since he is banned anyway, we have told him to take his wife away for a few days and get some relaxation while he can." *Last night’s under-21 match between United at Motherwell was postponed because water was on the pitch.

Hugh Dallas will referee Saturday’s Dundee derby. ©The Courier