“Jim has been superb in my time at the club and, the way he’s going this season, I’d expect him to maybe reach something like 15 goals,” said Ian.

“His average here is a goal every two-and-a-half games, which is excellent in the modern game and I feel that he deserves to be rewarded and that’s why I’ve offered him another year.”

McIntyre’s initial response has encouraged his manager and the pair will probably sit down next week in an attempt to finalise the detail of the new contract.

Meanwhile, key Dundee United midfielder Barry Robson will miss two important SPL fixtures in the next few weeks because of suspension.

Robson will have to sit out the Tannadice derby against Dundee on Saturday week and, after returning for the CIS and Scottish Cup clashes with Rangers and Queen of the South, will complete his ban in the meeting with fellow-strugglers Livingston next month.

While he is happy with the cover available for his wide man, Tangerines gaffer McCall admitted losing the former Inverness Caley man would be a blow.

“I don’t think Barry has had the kind of outstanding season he did for us last year, but he is still an important player who puts in a lot of work for us,” said Ian.

“If you take Monday night’s cup-tie at Gretna as an example, I didn’t think he had his best game for us, but he scored a goal, won a penalty and worked hard up and down the left.

“He always makes a contribution and, in a split second, can produce a bit of magic that can win games, so he is someone I like to have in the team. However, we are going to miss him for a couple of games and that just means it will be an opportunity for someone else to come in and do well for us.”

Someone who might get the chance to come into the starting line-up at Dunfermline this weekend is new signing Lee Mair, who has impressed in his two substitute appearances so far.

“I thought he was very composed when he came on at a tricky time of the tie against Gretna and, since he’s arrived, he has looked an intelligent footballer. He definitely has a chance for Saturday,” added Ian.

United are expecting an offer from Scunthorpe for available striker Collin Samuel, who has done well on a trial down south this week.

One barrier to a deal being done could be the renewal of the Trinidadian’s work permit. He will have to re-apply for one if he gets a new employer and his lack of appearances at both club and international level since he moved to Tannadice from Falkirk could then become a problem.

Fans should note the Tennent’s Scottish Cup tie in Dumfries on February 5 will not be all ticket.