I'll step into 'Goodie's' two shoes says Johnny Russell

JOHNNY RUSSELL does not want his long-time strike partner and close friend David Goodwillie to leave Dundee United. But the youngster has declared himself ready to step into his boots if, as expected, he clinches a move away from Tannadice. Cardiff City, Rangers, and Blackpool are all fighting to land 22-year-old Scotland international Goodwillie.

Russell is arguably the player with most potential on Peter Houston's books and he has proved his mettle during loan spells with Raith Rovers and Forfar before coming back to make an impact at United. He is now considered a first-team player but has been in and out of the side over the past 12 months, although Goodwillie's departure could see him propelled to a first pick.

Russell, who starred alongside Goodwillie all through the youth ranks, said: "Obviously we all want Goodie to stay because he's a massive player for the team. But if he does go then I think I'm ready to step in. I have been out on loan and been patient. I have played quite a few games now and feel that I am improving all the time.

"So if Goodie signs for someone else and the manager asks me to step up to the plate then I'm ready to do it."

United manager Houston reacted angrily to suggestions Goodwillie was set to slap in a transfer request last week after a 1 million bid from Rangers was rejected and Russell insists he's seen nothing to suggest the interest is having an impact on him. He said: "Goodie has not been bothered at all by the speculation. Nothing fazes him, all he is thinking about is his football. He takes everything in his stride. He's really good in the dressing-room and is always handing out some stick to the other boys. He gets a fair bit back as well but he doesn't mind about that because if you give it out you've got to be able to take it."

While clubs battle to land Goodwillie - with Cardiff now leading the chase - former United players Morgaro Gomis and Craig Conway have clinched big-money moves to the Championship.

That has shown Russell that doing well in the SPL can lead to bigger and better things. He added: "I have seen clubs try to sign Goodie and the likes of Craig Conway and Morgaro Gomis get big moves from Dundee United. So it shows me that if you work hard you can really make a success of yourself here.

"That's why I joined United as a boy because it's a great place to play your football. The gaffer is willing to give young boys a chance and you can see that from the age of our team."