LEVEIN IN AS BREW GOES

CRAIG LEVEIN will today become Dundee United's sixth manager in four years after Craig Brewster was sacked last night.

In a whirlwind day of talks, Brewster's nine-month reign was ended, paving the way for the former Hearts boss to take over at Tannadice.

Chairman Eddie Thompson spent much of yesterday thrashing out a compensation package for Brewster worth in the region of £150,000. Assistant Malky Thomson and fitness coach Peter Davidson are also out after Saturday's 5-1 humiliation away to Falkirk proved the last straw.

Dunfermline chairman John Yorkston last night played down reports Brewster was on his way to East End Park although he is in the frame to replace Jim Leishman.

Brewster said: "I wish to put on record my gratitude to the directors, coaching staff, players, all Dundee United support staff and, in particular, the fans for their loyal and continuous backing.

"I wish Dundee United every success in the future."

With a record of two wins in 28 SPL games Brewster knew the axe was inevitable and Thompson had no alternative but to get rid of the man who was a fans' favourite as a player.

Brewster was hailed as United's saviour back in January when he left Inverness for an emotional homecoming as Arabs player-boss.

But the pressure became too much recently and Brewster admitted privately he regretted making the move.

United director Derek Robertson said: "Following detailed discussions it was agreed that it was now in the best interests of Dundee United, Craig Brewster and Malky Thomson to part on amicable and mutually respectful terms. We are hugely disappointed that Craig's latest spell with the club should end in this way.

"However, all parties recognise that results and performances have been less than acceptable and less than Dundee United supporters deserve. Craig leaves the club with his integrity intact and we wish him and Malky every success in their future careers."

Levein will be in the dugout for the first time this Sunday.

The former Scotland defender knocked back an offer to take over at Dunfermline in favour of the challenge of keeping United in the SPL. Levein, 42, returned to management on a non-contract basis at Raith Rovers after leaving Leicester earlier this year.

Meanwhile, Dunfermline will today step up their hunt for a new boss when Jim Leishman presents a list of candidates to the board at East End Park. Brewster is in the frame, along with Donald Park, Bobby Williamson and Alex Smith. Livi boss John Robertson is also interesting the Pars.

Taken from the Daily Record