Mark Birighitti turns Dundee United goalkeeper search pain into motivation as Jim Goodwin show of faith proves key

Mark Birighitti admits it was a kick in the teeth when Dundee United tried to bring in a new keeper.

But the experienced shot-stopper used it as a motivation and under new boss Jim Goodwin he is back playing with a smile on his face again. The Aussie was going through a tough spell and United brought across former US international Bill Hamid, 32. Then Liam Fox left and Goodwin came in as gaffer, deciding to stick with Birighitti.

The experienced keeper has taken a shot in the arm from that and has been a key player in United’s recent climb out of the bottom two. The 32-year-old said: “When you move from the other side of the world to ply your trade, you want to play and help the team as much as possible. So when you hear all these rumours in the outside world, it’s a bit of a kick in the teeth. But I’ve been around long enough and I’m strong enough to deal with these situations. The manager’s come in, given me belief and confidence, and that’s showing in games.

“I won’t shy away from it, it’s always nice when a manager comes in and backs you. It’s up to me now to repay that faith he’s given me. I’m enjoying my football more than ever now and am happy he’s the coach.”

Birighitti reckons Goodwin has brought the feelgood factor back as well as making the team fitter as they bid to stay in the Premiership.

He added: “You can see not only me but everyone in the dressing-room, there’s a different vibe and the atmosphere is unbelievable now. It’s somewhere you enjoy coming into and working now. I come in, work hard and try to be the best version of myself.

“I’m happy with my performances in recent weeks and I’m glad to have been here when the team has needed me. It’s good to have my confidence back and be at the top of my