“Yes, I would put all four goals lost on Saturday as in the crazy category, but our defensive record going into that game was good,” said McCall.

“I didn’t build up the reputation I have — or had until about four months ago — by slating my players in public. I’ve worked under real adversity at clubs like Clydebank, Morton and Airdrie, but I still managed to get myself a decent reputation and win a move to a big club.

“That reputation was enhanced last year because we did so well, but, this season, we’ve gone backwards and, as the manager, I carry the can for that.

“There are players who have not performed as well as they can, and there have been a variety of reasons behind that, but no one goes out and deliberately doesn’t try. They are a good bunch of lads and I brought most of them to the club, so my attitude towards them won’t change.”

The manager met with chairman Eddie Thompson yesterday and his position as boss looks safe in the short term. However, after facing Rangers on New Year’s Day at Tannadice, United have a potential Tennent’s Scottish Cup banana skin at Gretna, followed by a trip to Tynecastle.

Then comes an even more crucial spell as they tackle clubs currently around them in the relegation zone — Dunfermline (a), Dundee (h), Livingston (a) and ICT (h).

United are to step up their bid to sign unsettled Steve Crawford from Plymouth Argyle. The Tangerines are in a battle for his signature with Aberdeen, Hearts and his former club Dunfermline, with the capital side looking favourite to land the Scottish international. However, it is believed Eddie Thompson has made funds available to tempt the striker to Tayside.

The club are also still talking to central defender Paul Ritchie in the hope that he will extend his stay at Tannadice.