And, with less than a month to go until the start of the new season, boss Gordon Chisholm is frantically searching for someone to fill the breach.

Former custodian of the gloves at Tannadice Paul Gallacher has been linked with a move back to his old stomping ground from Norwich, while Dunfermline’s Derek Stillie and former Dundee keeper Julian Speroni are also believed to be in the frame.

However, it’s ex-Scotland Under-21 keeper Samson, who had a spell on loan at St Johnstone last season, who has emerged as a strong candidate to fill one of the vacant keepers’ jerseys.

“Our goalkeeping coach Bobby Geddes had the lad recommended to him by Jim Stewart ,” said Gordon this morning. “He’ll come in for a few days this week and we’ll see how things go. There’s certainly no harm in having a look.”

Meanwhile, teenage defender Garry Kenneth has been rewarded for his end-of-season form, which saw him break into the first team and play in the Scottish Cup Final.

The 18-year-old Dundonian has agreed terms on a new improved three-year contract.

Mark Wilson and Lee Miller are expected to join the rest of the squad in training tomorrow after being given extra time off due to their international commitments.

The manager will also re-start talks with Wilson, with a view to extending the wing-back’s contract which only has a year to run.

“Talks have been ongoing for a while now and it’s no secret we are keen to get the boy signed up,” said Gordon.

Meanwhile, the fight to keep Jason Scotland at Tannadice continues.

The Federation of Dundee United Supporters’ Clubs has set up an official petition appeal, which is being publicised on the club’s official website, in respect of the Trinidadian international being refused a new work permit.

Already, approaching 2000 names have been gathered and this will serve to complement and reinforce the other online petition started last week.

Copies of the petition will also be available for signature in the club shop and the reception area at Tannadice.