For more than 20 years nobody could trace a copy of the song until Marra’s son dug one out while tidying up.

Leo’s long-lost musical tribute to McAlpine was given a fantastic reception by the fans when it was played at United’s home game against Livingston on Saturday.

Leo has now expressed his desire to sing the song live on the pitch at Tannadice and has also given permission for the supporters' trust to use his version for fund-raising purposes.

Speaking from his home in Sydney, the singer said, “Hamish McAlpine was an amazing character. He was a mighty kicker, had guts and determination, inspired the crowd like a true hero, conducting the fans' singing while brilliantly protecting United's woodwork.

“He lifted so many spirits during his playing years; it's a wonder he's not on any honours list. When I first heard the song, I was so intrigued by his legend that I just had to find out more. So, on a couple of visits to Dundee, I asked some local folk about him. I found out he was just like he was portrayed in the song.”

Leo described the song as a “gem” and said it was a thrill to be able to perform it with Michael Marra present. “OK, we never really finished it, but it should be good enough to put out like it is,” he said.

Leo said all of Michael Marra’s albums are on his Ipod and he regularly plays them to young songwriters as an example of the real craft of songwriting. “What a lyricist,” he said. “Along with Hamish, I think he's another great hero of Dundee.

“Yes, these days I live in Sydney, the sun nearly always shines — but I think of Dundee on rare wet evenings and when I play songs like ‘General Grant's Visit To Dundee’ — “. . . what a mighty long bridge for such a mighty little old town. One day I'd love to sing ‘Hamish The Goalie’ live at Tannadice — wouldn't that be great?”

Dundee United’s communications director Derek Robertson said, “Of course we’d be delighted to arrange a performance of this at Tannadice if Leo is ever back in the UK.

“I’ve also spoken to Hamish McAlpine himself to inform him of the find and he was tickled pink to hear Leo’s comments about him.

“At some point we’ll arrange to present Hamish with a copy of Leo Sayer's version and wouldn’t it be great if the two of them could meet up at some time?”

Leo has given permission for the supporters’ trust, ArabTRUST, to use his version for fund-raising purposes. The trust has raised significant amounts in the last couple of years, not only for the club but good causes such as the United for Kids appeal and various community initiatives.

“It would, I assume, also be necessary to obtain the permission of Michael Marra, the composer, but I think everyone is hopeful that he would readily agree,” added Mr Robertson.

Although Leo’s version of Hamish’s tribute was lost, the words of Michael Marra’s song have forever been remembered by the United faithful and can still be heard ringing out at Tannadice.

McAlpine spent 20 years at Tannadice after joining United in 1966 from Butterburn Youth Club. He went on to make 687 appearances for the Terrors.

He made his debut in 1969 and was a mainstay in the famous Jim McLean side, which had back-to-back league cup wins in 1979 and 1980 and won the league championship in 1983.

He took penalty kicks, played with his bare hands, and it’s said he once booted a ball from Tannadice Park all the way into Dens Park.

“Hamish” is included in Michael Marra’s album “On Stolen Stationery”.