Jim Goodwin knows youth is a key element for Dundee United and they need to get back to producing the Stuart Armstrongs, Ryan Gaulds and Harry and John Souttars of the future.
The Tannadice academy has produced some top Scottish and Australian internationalists in recent years. The kids’ set-up has made United millions and Goodwin is well aware it is a vital revenue stream for the Tannadice club to develop and sell on top talent.
United handed promising Kai Fotheringham, who was in the final few months of his deal, a new contract earlier this week. Goodwin said: “I am in regular dialogue with Luigi Capuano, the CEO, and it is really important you tie up the good young prospects.
You really don’t want to leave yourself in a difficult situation in the summer when someone can come along and take them on the cheap.