Europa Conference League: Dundee United boss praises travelling fans and new signing

Dundee United striker Steven Fletcher has praised the team’s fans after 2,000 were reported to be travelling to Holland for tonight’s clash with AZ Alkmaar. United lead 1-0 from the first leg but face a huge challenge if they are to progress to the Europa Conference play-off round.

United punters have travelled in their numbers despite the game being shown on BBC and former Scotland striker Fletcher, 35, said: ‘It’s good for us that 2,000 fans are travelling. We’ll use that as a driving force.’

United boss Jack Ross admitted his men will have to raise their game again if they are to overcome Alkmaar, who were fifth in the Eredivisie last term. Alkmaar were unbeaten in five home European ties last season and beat Celtic 2-1 in Holland in a Europa League play-off, although they lost the tie on aggregate. Ross said: ‘AZ’s home record in Europe is very good over the past six or seven years.

‘I’m excited about it though. I think the players rose to the challenge last week and they’ll need to do so again on Thursday. The performance needs to be at least on par with last week’s at home.’

Aziz Behich has been given the green light to join the Dundee United squad for their Europa Conference qualifier against AZ Alkmaar tonight in the Netherlands.

The 31-year-old had to wait on a work permit after joining the Tannadice club from Turkish side Giresunspor last month. The approval for the left-back has come in time for the second leg of the third qualifying round at the AFAS Stadion where United take a 1-0 lead from last week.

United boss Jack Ross said: ‘We got confirmation of his work permit approval yesterday lunchtime which meant he can travel and be involved in the squad. It is a big boost for us. It has been hugely frustrating