Central defender Lewis Neilson happy to be back in Dundee United first team

Lewis Neilson admits he had some tough moments this season waiting for his chance in the Dundee United team but the 18-year-old is allowing himself happier thoughts of looking ahead to potential European football.

The centre-back burst into the first team at the start of last season and played 20 times in his breakthrough campaign, although half of those games were on loan with Falkirk.

Neilson also played in three of United’s Premier Sports Cup group stage ties this season but has had to be patient since then, making only four league appearances before last weekend.

But the defender came in for United’s crucial encounter with Motherwell and helped his team to a 1-0 win that puts them in a commanding position for a Europa Conference League place ahead of Sunday’s trip to Ibrox.

“I think that’s something that’s on everyone’s minds just now even if they don’t admit it,” Neilson said.

“That would be a great feeling to go to European football, that’s every boy’s dream growing up.

“Eventually you would hope to play Champions League but just now at 18 years old I would love to be playing European football.”

Neilson has had to maintain perspective at times when not getting selected.

“Sometimes it’s tough but I enjoy coming into training every day,” he said.

“I still need to remind myself I am only 18. I’m a centre-half and centre-halves usually do come in a wee bit later.

“I just keep the head down and focus. I set myself goals so no matter what age I am I always want to be pushing on and just now that’s getting into the first team and playing more games.

“I was glad to be able to come back into the team and help them out.

“I have been training really hard. I have not had many games this season so to come back in the team and