The viral infection which laid low several of Dundee United’s top-team men last week was still hanging around the club today. Stephen McConalogue, Joachim Fernandez and David Hannah were all stricken with the bug and today Kevin McDonald was added to their ranks, though Jason De Vos returned. "It is a bit of a concern," said assistant boss John Blackley, sitting in for manager Alex Smith, who is with the Scottish Under-21 side in Croatia. "We’ll have a look at how these guys are later today, but, hopefully, it will clear up."

Causing most concern is Hannah, who, as well as the mystery illness, is struggling with a groin strain picked up at Ibrox eight days ago. And John admitted, "David is probably our biggest worry. He’ll see the physio when he comes in and will receive intensive treatment." Davie McCracken (hamstring), also injured in the game against Rangers, appears to be on the mend and should be fit for the visit of Hearts on Saturday. Yesterday, a United side containing several of the club’s recent foreign signings went down 2-1 to Tayport juniors in a testimonial match for four of the Canniepairt’s longest-serving stars - Dave Reilly, Grant Paterson, Sean Wilkie and Mark Spalding. ©The Evening Telegraph