Peter Houston urges men to step up and start climbing SPL table

Dundee United manager Peter Houston has challenged his side to begin their hectic festive period on a high.

The Tangerines are gearing up for a busy spell which kicks off in Edinburgh against Hearts this afternoon and includes games with St Johnstone, St Mirren and Aberdeen which could shape their season.

Houston, pictured, is urging his players to seize the opportunity to define the campaign in a positive way as they set their sights on climbing the Clydesdale Bank Premier League table going into the new year.

He said: “It’s always an exciting time round about this stage of the season.

“They all promise to be very tough games but we’re relishing the prospect more than anything. The lads know what they’re capable of on their day so it’s up to them to really focus and try to get as many good results as we can over the next few games.

“There is a buzz at this time of year and hopefully it’s a time where we can look back and say we did very well.”

Houston knows he will need all his players to be on the top of their game and is confident they can rise to the challenge.

He said: “We’ve all got to pull together.

“We win and lose as a team together. That’s always been our true philosophy at this club. “The boys all get on really well together which they take onto the park come match-days.

“We’ll need that kind of spirit going to Hearts as it’s never easy through there but we’re looking forward to the match.

“We have lots of individuals playing well right now. For example, I think Willo Flood’s form is as good now as at any time since he came back to the club.

“He is dictating a lot of games for us so long may that continue.”