Jim Goodwin addresses Will Ferry Celtic speculation after Tannadice absence

Jim Goodwin has dismissed any suggestion Will Ferry’s absence against Celtic was transfer-related as Dundee United attempt to tie the Hoops-linked defender down to a new contract.

Ferry was missing as Martin O’Neill’s side cruised to a 4-0 Premier Sports Cup victory at Tannadice on Saturday, with his absence inevitably attracting attention amid Celtic’s interest.

The 25-year-old has been watched several times by Celtic scout Tosh McKinlay this summer as the Scottish champions consider their options at left-back.

However, Goodwin quickly clarified that Ferry had picked up an injury in training before the game.

Speaking to Premier Sports before kick-off, he said: “Kev [Ciubotaru] comes in at left-back. he’s not been long in the building. Will Ferry picked up a little niggle in training yesterday so it’s unfortunate to be without him.”

When it was suggested Ferry could perhaps have been missing because of the speculation surrounding Celtic, Goodwin responded: “Yeah really unfortunate, he felt a little tightness in his groin which is not like Will.

“Will Ferry is very much a player I want to keep, so much so that we are offering Will a new contract. Hopefully, he’ll be here longer term.

“We’ll catch up with his representatives early next week but I reiterate that Will Ferry is a player I’d very much like to keep but, at the same time, every player has a valuation and if that is reached, then it’s out of my hands.”