United Out To Shock

Last updated : 01 May 2011 By Ed_ScottishFitba

Peter houston IDundee United have four players back from suspension for the game against Celtic. The four, Morgaro Gomis, Sean Dillon, Mihael Kovacevic and Paul Dixon, missed the 4-2 win over Kilmarnock but are back in contention for a place today. Manager Peter Houston hopes his players can improve on their best performance of the season and shock title-chasing Celtic. United bounced back from a 4-0 defeat by Rangers, during which they were reduced to eight men and conceded three penalties, with a 4-2 defeat of Kilmarnock last Saturday. And Houston knows more will be required of his side to win at Parkhead. 
 
He said: "It was a fantastic response. For 65, 70 minutes it was the best we've played this season in many ways. Considering the amount of players that were out - good players, first-team players - it shows you the wee bit of depth we have. It shows you the players who step up and step in are good squad players battling for first-team places and they're every bit as good as the ones they replaced. But it will take a huge improvement because Celtic are a really good side.'' 
 
With Hearts stumbling to a draw yesterday against Kilmarnock, Houston is hoping his United side can pick up all three available today and finish the campaign in fourth place at least. He has high hopes for today as he has his strongest squad available for the first time this season. He went on: "It's come at a good time, we've still got a wee bit to play for''. 
 
Houston knows a win at Parkhead is a tall order, but he also expects Celtic's attacking style will create space his side can exploit. He added: "When they came to Tannadice earlier in the season they played exceptionally well. To be honest we couldn't get near them at times - they were really, really good. We know, going to Celtic Park, we'll have to put in one of our better performances. However, they let you play and that's what we'll do. "We'll go with players who are comfortable on the ball and like to pass the ball. Hopefully we can keep the ball, retain possession and create chances as well.''