Tony Docherty reacts to Dundee United title win as Dundee FC boss offers his take on return of derby day

Tony Docherty believes it is a big plus for Scottish football to have the Dundee derby back in the Premiership next season.

United can officially seal their top-flight return by getting a result at Airdrie. The Dundee boss has praised Jim Goodwin and United for the job he has done and believes it will be good to have two teams in the one street together in the top-flight. Docherty said: “I would like to put it on record my congratulations for Jim and his team. Full credit to Dundee United. I know they still have to officially seal it but it is extremely unlikely they won’t. It is almost over the line. I know what it takes because I was assistant manager to Derek (McInnes) at Kilmarnock.

“The Championship is not easy to get out of and to do it at first time is a fantastic achievement. Huge credit to Dundee United and Jim Goodwin. He has done a good job there and I like him. I am looking forward to the Dundee derby being back in the top-flight next season. I live in the area and I know how important the derbies are. It means a lot to the city and it will be something else to look forward to next season.”

Dundee have an even bigger prize, possibly, facing them before the end of the season. The newly-promoted team has already secured their place in the top six. They are now just two points behind St Mirren, who are in the European places. Docherty, however, insisted it is still very much match-by-match and his only focus will be the visit from Celtic on Sunday rather than getting the passports out for next season.

He stated: “No, not at all. We are very much game-by-game. As our season went along our objectives changed. We are very much focused on the last five games. We have three at home and two away and we will take