Dundee United set to unveil their new manager

Ray McKinnon has taken another step towards taking over at Dundee United after resigning from the manager's post at Raith Rovers.

The 45-year-old former Tannadice midfielder has been locked in talks with United chairman Stephen Thompson since Monday.

While a spokesman for the Tangerines - who have already agreed compensation terms with Rovers - would only confirm the negotiations with McKinnon had been positive but were ongoing'', Press Association Sport understands he will be confirmed as Mixu Paatelainen's replacement today.

United made their move after being impressed by McKinnon's performance in Kirkcaldy, leading the Fifers to an impressive fourth-place Ladbrokes

Championship finish before seeing their promotion hopes ended at the weekend following a 2-1 aggregate defeat to Hibs in the play-off quarter-final.

In a statement posted on the club's official website, Raith confirmed McKinnon had stepped down from his Stark's Park role.

It read: Ray McKinnon has this evening advised the club of his intention to resign from his position as manager, with immediate effect.''

Rovers chief executive Eric Drysdale - who has already launched his own search for a new boss - added: Everyone at the club is naturally very disappointed that Ray has reached this decision, and we certainly did everything in our power, and then more, to try to retain his services but he leaves Raith Rovers with thanks and best wishes for the future. Ray has built a terrific squad of players with tremendous team spirit, and that will be his legacy.''

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