DEREK ROBERTSON, the former Dundee United director and a hugely popular figure at Tannadice for many years, has died.

A lifelong fan of the club, Robertson, who was 64 and had been ill for some time, was inducted into the United Hall of Fame last month in recognition of his contribution and dedication to his team.

He was known and admired throughout Scottish football having been on the Tannadice board for 13 years. He retired from his role a year ago.

Stephen Thompson, the Dundee United chairman said: "The first thing I want to say about Derek is that he was a lovely man and our thoughts are with Sheila, his wife, and his family.

“He was a hugely important and well-loved member of the Dundee United family and he will be greatly missed by us all. Derek loved United and even during his illness when I spoke to him his first thoughts were for the club.

“He was determined to see us reach the cup final this year and sadly that won’t be the case. As a fan and a director he always put United first and was always on hand to help in any way he could.

"He worked very closely with my father when he took control at Tannadice and I have had the same relationship with him.

“Even after he retired last year he was always on hand to help out if needed and I cannot over-state the work he did for Dundee United. Personally this is a very sad day for me because I have lost a very close friend who I had huge respect for.”