Stephen Thompson Statement

Just released, ahead of tomorrow's game

"Fellow Arabs,

You have responded in fantastic numbers to our request to snap up tickets for this game. With almost 10,000 Arabs due in attendance and the eyes of Scottish Football and Sky TV upon us, we must grab this opportunity to show all that is good about our city, our Club, its team and supporters.

The unique circumstances that have followed the announcement of this tie should not be allowed to detract from focusing your support on helping the team progress into the next round.

This will also be Jackie McNamara's first game in charge and I ask you to show our new Manager exactly what supporting Dundee United is all about. Please back the team from the first minute to the last and wear your colours with pride and show yourself, our Club and Scottish football in the best possible light."

No mention of any other clubs, no moaning about other sets of fans, or other individuals, no bleating about the press or the league. Just a clear, simple, positive message.

Good man.