Dundee United Chairman Stephen Thompson has given his backing for a Yes vote on Thursday.

Club chief Thompson took over the reins from his father Eddie in 2008 and has seen the side reach two Scottish Cup finals.

He is convinced that the best people to take decisions on Scotland's future are the people who live here and he wants to see a Yes vote so that sport in Scotland can flourish with promotion from a Scottish broadcaster.

Mr Thompson said: "Scotland is more than capable of being a successful independent country - and a Yes vote will allow Scotland to maximise its potential on the world stage.

"One of our biggest exports and assets has been our people from all walks of life, social and political background - and one of the greatest challenges we face is to grow job opportunities so more of our brightest youngsters stay and work here in Scotland.

"There is no one better placed to make the best of Scotland than the people of Scotland and no amount of negativity from the No campaign or media can change that.

"I'm not bothered by party politics or politicians but it is clear to me that Westminster isn't working and the referendum is a great opportunity; it is time for Scotland to stand on its own two feet and take the big decisions itself so we can grow our economy.

"I think there would be more opportunities for Scottish athletes in an independent Scotland and definitely more opportunities to promote sport with a Scottish broadcaster."

Thompson's decision to support a Yes vote comes after a group of Scottish footballers said they would vote No.

The sixteen players including Walter Smith, Frank McAvennie, Ally McCoist and Barry Ferguson signed a joint statement calling on "every patriotic Scot to help maintain Scotland's place in the United Kingdom which has served Scotland so well".

Other Scottish footballers including PartickThistle legend John Lambie, Glasgow City FC and other sportsmen and women including 1978 Commonwealth Games Gold medalist Cameron Sharp have come out in favour of a Yes vote.

Thompson has previously attracted controversy after insisting Rangers would not be able to gain a quick return to top flight football and they would have to earn their way back to the Scottish Premiership through league promotion.

Rangers fans have also shown ill-feeling towards the Tannadice club after they failed to reimburse thousands of travelling fans when a game between the two clubs was abandoned due to a water-logged pitch in 2009.