Jim Goodwin knows Europe will boost Dundee United transfer kitty and make Tannadice club an even BIGGER draw
The Tannadice club are currently on course for Conference League qualification
Jim Goodwin knows taking Dundee United into Europe would significantly strengthen his hand in the transfer window.
The Tangerines sit fourth in the Premiership and if they can stay there, it would clinch a Conference League slot.
Fifth could also do it if Celtic or Aberdeen win the Scottish Cup at the end of next month.
United have a rich European history and the manager knows that could help to entice an even better quality of player.
Goodwin said: “Dundee United in Scotland is a big draw as it is.
People recognise the history of the club, the facilities and the fan base that exists here.
“Competing in European football makes that task of signing good quality players a little bit easier because everybody wants to test themselves at the highest level.
“The possibility of Europe was a big part of our recruitment drive last summer.
“We actually put together a video presentation of some really good nights at Tannadice and some of those European nights were involved. Some were from decades ago but also the AZ Alkmaar game.
“I know that’s not one that people want to talk too much about, given the scoreline in the second leg, but the home leg was good!
“They’re the kind of games you want to be involved in, testing yourself against top opposition.
“I don’t want to be talking too much about European football as I’d hate for people to view it as an unsuccessful season if we don’t get it.”
That is unlikely as United are nine points ahead of St Mirren in sixth with 15 points on offer.
Goodwin added: “We’re not going to think too far ahead right now. We’ll plan for sixth place and anything above that will be an added bonus.
“But, of course, we’re aware fifth place could become European football with the prize money that brings.
“That would make a significant difference to the purse strings.
“The European thing would be great for everybody.
I’ve never been involved in European football at a club so it would be a first for me. It would be something I’d relish.”