Courier columnist Jim Spence has joined Dundee United as a consultant.

He will be advising the Tannadice board on how better to interact with supporters and their representatives, as well as helping liaise with the media.

The experienced locally-based journalist, who worked with the BBC before going freelance, said: “I met the board recently and told them some harsh truths.

“They are prepared to embrace the changes which they accept are needed at Tannadice.

“A new manager will soon be appointed and there will be more open and regular communication with United fans and also with the media who, despite perceptions, have a vital and tough job to do.

“I’ll be working closely with the board and current staff.

“My involvement will see the club tackle the issue of better engagement and accessibility for United fans.

“It will also allow other staff to focus on continuing the good work they do behind the scenes at Tannadice.

“An open monthly meeting for all fans will be held, and we will investigate the possibility of a weekly drop in centre at Tannadice or elsewhere, where supporters can raise any issues of concern.

“This is a great club with a proud domestic and European history.

“Devout United fans feel badly let down and are right to be angry, but we can either whine or get wired in and get the club back on its feet.

“The immediate job in hand is to ensure the financial health and well-being of the club and to restore United’s dignity and pride, both of which have been badly bruised.

“I’ve sought assurances from the chairman that while he is here he will continue to seek fresh investment, and that he is determined to put right the mistakes which he and the board acknowledge they have made.”

United chairman Thompson added: “Jim has given us some very useful insights this week already on an informal basis.

“In these challenging times for the club, it makes sense now to draw upon his wide experience.”

Spence writes a weekly column for The Courier and previously worked for BBC Sport for over 25 years in radio and TV.

He recently went freelance and will operate in that capacity for United.