Houston hails United starlets

Dundee United manager Peter Houston is delighted with the development of his Scotland Under-21 contingent.

The Tannadice club have had four players called in to Billy Stark's side to face Holland later this month and three of those have become regular starters at the club this season. Exciting winger Gary Mackay-Steven has had his first call up, while Stuart Armstrong, Johnny Russell and Marc McCulloch have featured on the international scene before.

Houston, whose team play Kilmarnock on Tuesday, said: "I am really pleased with our young players. They've stepped up to the plate and stood up to be counted at places like Ibrox and Parkhead. I find it very difficult to criticise them. At the end of the day, I've got a bunch of boys who will work their socks off."

United fought out a drab goalless draw with St Mirren last weekend but Houston predicts a much livelier encounter against Killie.

Kenny Shiels' side come into the contest on the back of a win over Rangers at Ibrox, so Houston knows they will be brimming with confidence.

"It wasn't the best of games at the weekend. The pitch wasn't great but I hate making excuses," he said.

"We just needed a wee bit more quality but I was still pleased with the boys' work-rate and we will need that again against Killie.

"They are coming into the game on the back of a very good result at Ibrox so will be full of confidence. We have always had good games with Killie in the past."

United defender Garry Kenneth is likely to miss out again with a groin strain, while Danny Swanson is also out.