Dundee United v Hibs preview

Nov 9 2008

WARREN FEENEY reckons Paul Dixon is Dundee United's answer to Stoke City's lethal throw-in expert Rory Delap.

The Republic of Ireland midfielder has caused havoc in the Premiership this season with the striker-seeking missiles he launches from the sidelines.

But Arabs full-back Dixon proved last week at Ibrox he can fire off a footballing warhead of his own with a 50-yard assist to Scott Robertson at the back post for United's third goal.

And Feeney knows Gers won't be the last to wonder how to deal with a weapon so wicked.

The on-loan striker said: "We have a laugh about it - sometimes in training we say: 'When did we turn in to Stoke City?' "But it works for them in the Premiership. And on Tuesday, Robbo got in at the back of it and finished off well.

"We practise it. A couple of us stay behind to see who can throw the ball the furthest. But Dicker's the only winner. So if it works why not.

"I'm sure a few teams will catch on but if you put the ball into the danger area you never know what might happen."

United have recovered from a disastrous start that saw them stuck in bottom place with just two points from their first 15.

The run since then has Northern Ireland ace Feeney believing they shouldn't even be satisfied with aiming for being the SPL's third force.

He said: "It's difficult getting to know players at the start. But we've come a long way.

"Everyone says third but after we did so well against Rangers why not go for second and first?"