Gary Mackay-Steven enjoying Dundee Utd life after injury woes

By Brian McLauchlin BBC Scotland

Dundee United winger Gary Mackay-Steven says he is enjoying an extended run of football after earlier career setbacks.

"I was a bit unlucky with injuries and spent a bit of time out of the game," Mackay-Steven told BBC Scotland.

"I played at Airdrie for six months last season just to get some game time and that went well.

"I am enjoying myself greatly here [at United]. I think we have got a great team with a lot of talented young and experienced players."

The former Liverpool youth player scored United's second in the weekend win against Hibernian , his fourth goal in 29 appearances this season.

His performances and displays of skill were rewarded when he made his debut for Scotland's Under-21 side against the Netherlands in February.

"I was at Ross County and then Liverpool for a few years but got a niggling injury that I never really got over," said the 22-year-old.

"Obviously it was a good experience, but I always knew when I left I wanted to come back home."

Mackay-Steven is a native of Thurso and says there are not too many professional footballers from the Highland town.

"It's a small town and it's a fair trek for all my family to come and watch me play," he added.

"If I get a spare chance, I like to go home, but it's a long way. I think I need a week off anyway as a weekend is not enough."