First Team

JAMIE MCGRATH | WE WANT TO PUT A MARKER DOWN

18th February 2023

United midfielder Jamie McGrath insists the playing group are under no illusions as to the magnitude of our cinch Premiership clash with St Johnstone.

Whilst speaking to the broadcast media during a press call at the High-Performance Centre, he began “It’s a very important game for us. 

"We see other teams around us picking up points and that’s something we have to emulate as soon as possible”

'We Have To Take Responsibility

Head Coach Liam Fox vociferously lamented his side’s lack of bravery and personality after last week’s Scottish Cup exit, and McGrath echoed this concern.

“As players, we have to take responsibility when things aren’t going well. 

“When bravery is talked about that’s not necessarily about tackling it can be looking for the ball even when the going is tough”

He continued, “There are always learning curves from every game but you want to get to Hampden so there’s no doubt it was a disappointment.

"It does however allow us to keep our full focus on getting off the bottom of the league.”

Elusive Kryptonite

United’s kryptonite remains largely a mystery according to the 26-year-old. He did state however that not getting the rub of the green wasn't a tangible excuse.

“It’s hard to put my finger on why things have gone wrong recently. 

 

“I think we’ve been unlucky on occasion but, ultimately, it's not down to that. We have to look at ourselves as players before we look anywhere else.” 

Winter Injury Hell

The Ireland international has been impactful at Tannadice since his temporary switch north of the border, however, he has suffered a stop-start return to action following the World Cup, finding himself sidelined with two separate niggling injuries. 

"As a footballer, you just want to play games. It’s so frustrating when you have little things keeping you out, especially when I just got back into the swing of things.

"You’re going to the games and kicking every ball from the stands but it’s a nightmare. Hopefully, that’s the end of it now so I can finish the season strongly and pick up some form."

'We Want To Put A Marker Down'

Despite the Terrors currently propping up the table, a victory over Saints tomorrow afternoon could propel the hosts within four points of their counterparts. 

The Wigan Athletic loanee maintains, regardless of the outcome of the match, the playing group and staff will retain a positive mindset.

“It’s a big period for us - there are a lot of points up for grabs and if we put a run together we can push ourselves up the table. One win and you could be up to ninth.

“I don’t think there’s any added pressure on this weekend’s game though. There’s still a lot of football to be played pre and post-split."

McGrath finished, “They’re only a few points ahead of us so we want to put a marker down. It’s going to be a very tough game but we know what they’re about - we’ve done our homework to identify weaknesses and vulnerabilities.

"We just want to go out on the front foot, start the game well and secure the three points"

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