Mixu Paatelainen appointed Head Coach of Dundee United

Dundee United today confirmed former Hibs’ striker and manager Mixu Paatelainen as the Club’s new Head Coach. He signs until June 2018.

Mixu, who played for United 173 times, returns to Scottish football after four years as Finland national Head Coach.

The Finn is expected to attend a charity dinner at the Corn Exchange on Sunday to commemorate Hibs’ famous 6-2 win over Hearts in October 2000, a game in which he scored a hat trick.

Former Hibs’ captain John Hughes who won the Scottish Cup with Inverness Caledonian Thistle had been linked with the job however he was refused permission to talk to the board.

Dundee United Chairman Stephen Thompson said: “I am delighted to welcome Mixu back to the Club as our new Head Coach. He served United with distinction as a player and will do the same as a manager. His desire to come back to the Club was clear from the first minute we spoke. He was the first person we spoke to and also the last.

“His experience combined with his vision and enthusiasm for the Club made him the standout candidate and we are thrilled to announce his appointment.”