DUNDEE United today hit back at their former manager Craig Levein over his claims they "nearly ruined" John Souttar's career.

Levein, now manager at Ladbrokes Premiership leaders Hearts, stated that Souttar, who made his debut for Scotland earlier this month, had found being played in a number of positions at Tannadice "confusing".

He also alleged that nobody at the Tayside club had given the centre half, who was often subjected to criticism from fans, the support that he needed.

But Championship club United issued a statement today rubbishing the allegations and defending their track record developing young players.

"Dundee United are very disappointed to read the derogatory and misleading statement attributed to the manager of a fellow Scottish FA member club relating to ex-United player John Souttar," the statement read.

"As a club, we are rightly proud of our long-standing and widely held reputation for developing young talent.

"John played top-level football for four seasons having made his debut under Peter Houston at the age of 16 years and 100 days.

"In total, John played 73 times in Dundee United's first-team and represented his country at all age groups up to and including under-21s during his time at the club.

"We are extremely proud that one of our youth academy graduates has now progressed into the full Scottish national team and are delighted to have played a significant part in John's development as a professional footballer. We wish John well in his future career."