Dundee United’s Jim Goodwin on Kilmarnock Clash, League Dynamics, and Cup Draw

Ahead of Saturday’s Premiership fixture against Kilmarnock, Dundee United manager Jim Goodwin addressed the media. Goodwin anticipates “a difficult game” despite Kilmarnock’s recent struggles, noting that opposing manager Derek McInnes will be “looking for a reaction” following his team’s 6-0 defeat to Rangers on Wednesday night. Goodwin expressed confidence that McInnes will guide Killie back to form, though he hopes this turnaround does not commence on Saturday. When questioned about potentially targeting Rangers and Aberdeen, who currently sit above his fourth-placed team, Goodwin stated he is not monitoring the league standings. He affirmed, “we are not looking over our shoulders, we are not looking up, we are just focusing on our next game.” Goodwin also highlighted the “fine margins” within the league, suggesting that while Celtic currently stands apart, the remaining 11 teams are closely matched. Regarding the upcoming Scottish Cup draw against local rivals Dundee, Goodwin declared it is “no doubt the tie of the round”. In terms of team news, midfielder Ross Docherty remains sidelined due to a calf strain, extending his absence in what has been an injury-disrupted season, but no new injuries were reported.