Dundee United's Paul McMullan happy with James Forrest label

Paul McMullan, who is looking forward to his first taste of the Tayside derby. Picture: Sammy Turner/SNS

McMullan has made a big impression since arriving at Tannadice in the summer from Celtic where he began his career as an upcoming winger.

The 21-year-old, who has been singled out for lavish praise from United manager Ray McKinnon, is being tipped for big things and the new United fans’ favourite has no qualms about being compared to Forrest.

McMullan said: “I’m definitely happy with that kind of comparison. James is direct and likes to get at defenders and he’s an international player as well.

“It’s a real compliment to hear people say that without a doubt. He’s spoken to me and given me bits of advice when I was at Celtic.

“Things like ‘be confident, don’t doubt yourself and be as direct as you can be’. I’ll try to take that forward in my game and I’ll always appreciate how good he was to me.

“Scott Brown was another one who was really good to me, but this is the time for me to start afresh and do as well as I can for Dundee United moving forward.”

United’s priority this season is to secure promotion following the agony of missing out via the play-offs to Hamilton on the final day of last season.

But McMullan insists they are also eyeing a run in the cup and are already thinking of next weekend’s derby showdown with Dundee at Dens Park.

He said: “It’s an exciting time and the boys are really looking forward to the Dundee game. Hopefully, we can get the two wins before then and look to top the group.

“I’ve watched a few of the derbies on television and they look great occasions.

“A few of the lads here have told me what they’re like to play in so there’s plenty to look forward to. This is a really good place to play your football.

“Everyone has been so supportive so far and I want to do really well for them.”