By Sean Saranczuk
May 17 2003

Dundee United manager Ian McCall has strengthened his squad by signing Barry Robson and extending Charlie Miller's contract. Inverness midfielder Robson has joined the club on a three-year contract in a deal worth "nearer £50,000 than £100,000" according to McCall.

Miller has also signed a new one-year deal with the club, shunning interest from Hearts and Coventry.

Aberdeen tried to hijack United's bid to sign Robson at a late stage, but the player insists that, after hearing the Tannadice management team's plans for the future, there was no chance he was going to snub them to join up with former boss Steve Paterson at Pittodrie.

Robson said: "I am glad that it's all sorted because it was dragging on a bit. I'm just glad to be here now. Ian McCall has been after me for months and came in for me as soon as the season ended so that's very flattering.

"I liked the feel of the place here and was very impressed after listening to the manager's plans for next year and who he hopes to sign.

"Going to Aberdeen was tempting, but, after talking to the people here, I am sure that this is the right place for me to advance my career."

Scotland hopeful Miller had been tipped to walk out on the Tangerines after two seasons, with interest reported from Hearts and Coventry City.

He could soon be joined in the United side by Craig Burley and Derek McInnes, who are being mentioned as potential targets for McCall.

Miller said: "I spoke to the manager recently and he told me about his plans for next year and who he is trying to sign.

"We do need to add some players and I was really impressed with the quality that he is looking to bring to the club.

"I would love to see players like Derek McInnes and Craig Burley come to Tannadice.''