Goodwin in 'good health' but needs 'simple procedure'

Dundee United manager Jim Goodwin was not for going into detail about his recent hospital scare that requires "a simple procedure".

But he was "pleased to say I am back to full health and raring to go" after a three-game absence from the dugout.

The 44-year-old will be back on the sidelines as United visit his former club St Mirren on Saturday.

Back on media duty on Friday, Goodwin said: "It was something pretty straightforward in the end. It was a simple procedure required and once that is done and all tidied up then it will be nothing that I need to worry about going forward.

"It was a huge surprise to me and my wife and to my children. I am not one that gets coughs or colds, I am not one that misses days at work and I am not a great patient because it is not something I have ever been used to."

Nevertheless, Goodwin has been "absolutely overwhelmed" by the messages of support since he was admitted to hospital at the end of August.

"What I would like to say is a huge thank you to all the people out there from the football world and far beyond who have reached out and passed on their best wishes," he added.

"From the club here at Dundee United to our supporters, they put a nice display on last week against Falkirk – obviously my wife and my children and the NHS staff at the Royal Hospital in Glasgow and at Stobhill in Bishopbriggs, they have all been brilliant, but I am pleased to say I am back to full health and raring to go."

In his absence, assistant Lee Sharp took the team, presiding over a 4-0 win away to Kilmarnock - a defeat at Motherwell and a home draw with Falkirk.

Goodwin was asked how frustrating he has found not being able to be hands-on over the last three weeks.

"It was a strange period for my children as well because in 20 years they have never been used to me being at home, so it took a little bit of getting used to, but I have to say the staff here at Dundee United and the players have been brilliant," he added.

"I have had constant dialogue with them on a daily basis. I have still been able to watch the games and communicate with the bench and things like that, but tomorrow it will be brilliant to be back on the sidelines and back at a familiar spot as well in Paisley playing against St Mirren."