And with their rivals facing Hearts in their final game on Sunday, that might just be enough to guarantee a successful first full season in charge for Ian.

“Tonight is a chance for us to put a bit of pressure on Motherwell and to be four points ahead of them at this stage would be a good position,” he said.

What he isn’t doing, though, is taking success against the Scottish Cup Final-bound Pars for granted.

“It is going to be a very tough game against a very good side, even if a few of the team that will play in the final are missing tonight.

“Jimmy Calderwood has done a great job at Dunfermline and when you consider he has led a provincial team to fourth in the league and a Scottish Cup Final, then it is a big surprise to me that he has not had a mention when the Manager of the Year award was being given out.”

Returning to United’s starting line-up after suspension will be wide man Barry Robson — Stuart Duff looks certain to make way for him — but Andy McLaren, Jim McIntyre and long-term absentee Scott Paterson remain unavailable.

“Jim McIntyre’s season is definitely over, Scott is training normally now, but we will not throw him in for either of the last two games, while Andy could miss them as well. He is definitely out against Dunfermline and, at best, 50-50 for Celtic on Sunday.”

This is midfielder Craig Easton’s last home game before he leaves at the end of the season. Since that news broke a couple of weeks back, there has been a flood of mail at Tannadice praising his efforts for the Tangerines both on and off the park.

“Eastie” will start on the bench tonight and could come on for his 257th competitive appearance.

Off the park, he has been a superb ambassador for United, attending numerous events on their behalf.

In recognition of nine years’ service and his popularity with the fans, a presentation will be made to Craig before kick-off by Eddie Thompson and representatives from fans’ groups.