Source: Team_Talk
Houston set for permanent role
Peter Houston has reportedly been offered the Dundee United job on a permanent basis.[LNB] The Scottish Premier League club look set to confirm the 51-year-old's appointment early next week following talks between his representative and chairman Stephen Thompson.[LNB]Saturday saw Houston lead United to the Scottish Cup, their first success in the competition for 16 years.[LNB]It was also only the fifth major trophy the club have won in their 100-year history.[LNB]Houston was placed in charge until the end of the season following Craig Levein's departure for the Scotland job.[LNB]Following a poor start as caretaker boss back in December - including a 7-1 thrashing at Rangers - Houston ruled himself out of the running to succeed Levein, who he assisted for more than three years at Tannadice.[LNB]United saw a move for Bohemians manager Pat Fenlon break down in January after failing to agree compensation with the Irish club.[LNB]Results under Houston improved dramatically, prompting him to change his mind over wanting the job.[LNB]The Tangerines finished a comfortable third place in the SPL before winning the cup, representing one of the most successful seasons in their history.[LNB]Since the weekend win over Ross County, Houston's appointment has been seen by both him and Thompson as little more than a formality.[LNB]Houston will be able to call on one of his biggest stars next season after Scotland midfielder Scott Robertson signed a contract extension today.[LNB]Robertson, who finished an injury-plagued season on a high by coming off the bench at Hampden on Saturday, committed himself to the club for another year until May 2012.[LNB]Young defender Keith Watson has also penned a two-year extension until May 2013.[LNB]Houston told the club's official website: "I am delighted that these two players have agreed to extend their stay at Tannadice.[LNB]"Scott Robertson has proved himself to be capable of playing at the highest level and, were it not for injury, I'm sure he would have received further recognition at international level.[LNB]"He's just back from a long spell on the sidelines and it will be a great boost to have him back as a first-team regular next season.[LNB]"Keith Watson was recognised as having great potential as soon as we arrived at the club and it is very pleasing to see him battle back from serious injury to challenge for a regular first-team starting berth. I have high hopes for his future.[LNB]"Having already signed Ryan Dow and Dale Hilson on extended contracts, these further contract extensions demonstrate that we are all fully focused on the long-term future of Dundee United."
