The start of 2002/2003 was characterised by more headlines relating to events in the boardroom at Tannadice, than those on the pitch. Efforts to sell a majority shareholding in the club continued throughout the summer and ended when Eddie Thompson bought a controlling interest in late September. By that time, United had won only one of their eight SPL matches and the new chairman lost little time in replacing manager Alex Smith with Paul Hegarty, captain of United's championship-winning squad of 1982/83.

However, the appointment was only on a temporary basis and when the following 15 SPL matches produced only a further two victories and were followed by a Scottish Cup defeat at the first hurdle (for the first time in 22 years) Hegarty's reign was brought to an end. Ian McCall, widely regarded as Scotland's most promising young manager, was appointed together with his assistant at Falkirk, Gordon Chisholm, in late January. Under Hegarty, United had reached the semi-final of the CIS League Cup but a 3-0 defeat by Celtic at Hampden highlighted the size of the new manager’s task. His target was clear – to avoid bottom place and with it the risk of relegation; this was achieved, but only in the second last match of the season.

Ian McCall spent the close season re-shaping the squad, bringing in nine new players with the same number with first team experience being allowed to leave. A further two players were added after the season got under way. Such a high turnover of players is unusual but such was the size of the task faced by McCall, he had little option. Despite a difficult start to the fixture list, United supporters looked forward to season 2003/2004 with renewed enthusiasm.

 

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