Source: Team_Talk
Swanson makes case for defence
Swanson has finally made the breakthrough to become a first-team regular after spending two years on the periphery at Tannadice.The 23-year-old was once regarded as a "luxury" player because he was unable to double up his lethal attacking skills with covering for his defence.But manager Peter Houston set him working hard on the defensive aspect of his play and Swanson, who has gained over a stone in muscle after completing gruelling daily gym sessions, is now close to becoming the complete player.He said: "When I came back into the team I was told I'd have to improve my defending so that's something I've worked on."I still try to get forward as much as possible but I've realised I can't just go up the park without thinking about things at the other end."Being more aware of defending has certainly helped me keep my place in the team and I think I'm a better player these days for it."United travel to face Aberdeen on Saturday, with the Dons having not won a game since January and the pressure building on manager Mark McGhee.But Swanson will not be taking their north-east rivals lightly, especially on the barren Pittodrie pitch.He added: "Aberdeen have been struggling lately but they still have good players and they are capable of hurting you."I've seen their pitch on telly and it doesn't look too great so that's something we'll have to adapt to."We are chasing a place in Europe and it's very tight where we are in the league so we know how important every game is going to be from now on."It's great having something to play for, it's exciting because every game is massive."United will be boosted by the return of Andy Webster after he missed out against Rangers last weekend. The Scotland man had been carrying a calf injury so was given a week's rest.Striker David Goodwillie is also back following a recent illness but Damian Casalinuovo, who was taken off only 60 seconds into the Rangers game, is missing.Paul Dixon is also out after failing to recover from his ankle injury in time. Aberdeen v Dundee Utd. Click here to bet.