Having expressed his annoyance over the time it took the association to confirm they would meet United’s demands when Levein was appointed Scotland boss a month ago, United chairman Stephen Thompson has stayed silent on the matter since a deal was thrashed out.

Today, he did confirm the figure that was stipulated in the manager’s Tannadice contract has not been forthcoming, but declined to comment any further.

The Tele understands, however, that, should the matter not be resolved soon, United will take action to get the money they’re due.

This lack of payment, so far, will not affect the continuing search for a manager that could still see compensation paid to gain the services of the right man, but that won’t stop strenuous efforts being made to force the SFA to act properly.

Meanwhile, after weeks of the big freeze, the United players finally got back to normal work today when training at their St Andrews base went ahead for the first time since before Christmas. That delighted caretaker-boss Peter Houston, who was happy to see his men back in their usual routine.

“It’s been a while training indoors or on the pitch at Tannadice, so it’s good to be looking forward to a normal build-up to a game,” he said. “One good thing about the weather has been the St Andrews pitches getting a rest, so the surface we’re working on is good.”

Striker David Goodwillie trained on his own today to protect the groin strain he’s been carrying since last week’s win at Hamilton, though his condition is not causing concern.

“He will be back with the squad Friday and Saturday, and he’ll definitely be OK for Falkirk on Sunday.”

Long-term absentees Scott Robertson and Francisco Sandaza were bound for Bradford today to see the specialist who has been treating their groin problems.

With Robertson, it is a case of wait and see, though he could face further surgery. With Sandaza, United are hoping for good news.

“Fran is still feeling wee bits and pieces when he trains, but we think it is just a bit of scar tissue and it could be something he can work through,” added Peter. “With Scott, it is just a case of wanting to finally get to the bottom of the problem. He’s still going to be out for a while, but at least if we can do that we can start thinking in terms of when he will be back.”