Arabs Should Be Inspired By Thompson

Mar 16 2008

TOMMY McLEAN reckons the chance to win the CIS League Cup for Eddie Thompson could give Dundee United's players the extra incentive they need to turn over Rangers today.

Thompson is battling cancer but the United supremo has vowed to be at Hampden in the hope of seeing his club win silverware for the first time since 1994 when a Scottish Cup victory stopped Gers winning the treble.

And ex-Arabs gaffer McLean is sure they can pull off another shock win against Rangers - a club he won three League Cup medals with as a player.

McLean, 60, said: "When I was manager at Motherwell the people of Lanarkshire suffered huge job losses at Ravenscraig.

"I used to remind my players some of the fans were out of work and had no money and that winning games would bring them some cheer.

"Sometimes that wee extra incentive can make a difference.

"At this moment Dundee United have a cause to play for and that cause is Eddie Thompson.

"Because of Eddie's health there might be that extra spur for them.

"I have my own opinion of the man but his love of the club is not in any doubt.

"Rangers have better players but if United can get through the first half-hour without conceding they will be in with a big shout.

"I think United have a real chance, I honestly do.

"This Rangers team reminds me of Celtic under Martin O'Neill in terms of it being strong and powerful.

"But Rangers lack a bit of flair. They don't have the craft that players like Brian Laudrup and Gazza used to give them."