The man responsible for bringing controversial South American Victor Ferreyra to Scotland a decade ago has promised fireworks from Dundee United’s latest Latin recruits. Yesterday, the Tannadice side snapped up three stars from Honduran football, bringing manager Alex Smith’s signing tally to eight since his arrival at the club only six weeks ago. Honduras caps Reynaldo Clavasquin, a 28-year-old defender, and striker Francisco Remirez, 24, were brought to Scotland along with Argentine frontman Gustavo Fuentes, 27, after chairman Jim McLean’s talent-spotting mission in South America.

The moves see agent Marcello Houseman, who presided over the deals, renew his connections with United. Houseman arranged Ferreyra’s move to Tannadice in season 1991/92, and while United fans have fond memories of the impact made by the skilful striker he became a hate figure with opposition supporters. Ferreyra was involved in an infamous incident, spitting at Rangers goalkeeper Andy Goram at Ibrox, and a similar incident took place with Dundee defender Jim Duffy in a Dens derby that season. But if his temperament was poor, his footballing abilities were never in doubt, and Houseman reckons United’s new boys will also make an impact. "If you saw a video of Ferreyra then and looked at Fuentes now, the similarity is amazing," said Houseman. "I would say, however, that Fuentes has even more ability than Victor did. "The others are similarly talented and will I’m sure be great players at Dundee United."

The trio have been signed from Motagua, who have been Honduran champions over the past three seasons. After impressing the United manager since arriving at Tannadice a week ago, deals have been struck - but none of the trio will be available for today’s home game against Aberdeen. "The usual international clearance and other administrative matters are yet to be tied up," said Smith. "Gustavo actually has a European passport so he should be available to play within a few days. "I have been impressed with all three, they are very fit lads and love to train. I am sure they can adapt to the Scottish game and be successful here. They will be great favourites with the fans." However, United will be aware that the signing of the players is far from cut and dried, and the club still has a considerable amount of red tape to deal with before clearance is received to play the two who do not have European passports. Although the players are internationalists, the club will have to apply to the Department of Employment for work permits, with no guarantee that the applications will be rubber-stamped.

United will be without banned skipper Jason de Vos, and midfielder Kevin McDonald, who has a head knock. There will be late fitness tests to Davie Hannah, Hasney Aljofrey, and Steven Thompson. Smith will not be protesting against the dismissal of Jason de Vos in midweek. The Canadian cap was sent off for a challenge on Dundee striker Fabien Caballero but video evidence suggested the momentum of McDonald forced de Vos into the Dens forward. However, Smith insists that he now wants to let the matter drop."I am pleased that Caballero is not seriously hurt," said Smith. "I just want to end matters now and there will be no appeal." ©The Scotsman