Jim Goodwin Issues Demands to Ivan Dolček After ‘Good Conversation’ with Dundee United Winger

Croatian Star’s August Brilliance Fades Amid Calls for All-Round Team Play

Dundee United manager Jim Goodwin has engaged in “good conversations” with Ivan Dolček following the Croatian winger’s recent omission from the squad, emphasizing the need for greater consistency and off-ball work as the Tangerines prepare for a tough trip to league leaders Hearts on Sunday.

Dolček, on loan from Slovakian club Dunajska Streda, burst onto the scene with a stunning start to his Tannadice tenure, scoring five goals in his first five league outings — including a sublime strike in the 2-0 victory over local rivals Dundee and a fizzing low drive in the win against Aberdeen. His form earned him the Premiership Player of the Month award for August and sparked discussions about securing a permanent deal. However, his performances have dipped in recent weeks, leading to half-time withdrawals against Kilmarnock and Livingston, and complete omissions from the fixtures against St Mirren and Motherwell.

“I’ve had good conversations with Ivan,” said Goodwin. “He had a great month in August, scored important goals and received a lot of plaudits. But since then, I think his performance levels have been a little inconsistent. We’ve had that talk. We’ve spoken about his work rate off the ball and what he needs to do for the team when we don’t have possession. Nobody is doubting his ability and his quality when we’re in possession. But Ivan’s got to be an all-round team player.”

Goodwin has been encouraged by Dolček’s response, noting visible improvements in training as the 25-year-old pushes to reclaim his spot. “Ivan agreed with what we’ve shown him — and I’ve seen a real improvement in training,” praised Goodwin. “We’re all here to help each other and my job, as manager, is to point out where I think the players can do better; whether it’s individual programmes, training, the gym or on the pitch. Ivan understands what we’re asking from him and hopefully that will show in the weeks and months ahead. He’s a good player, and very important to us, so the hope is that he gets back to the levels that he showed in August.”

No ‘Home Truths’ Needed After Motherwell Misery

Dolček made a late cameo in United’s recent 2-0 defeat to Motherwell but was largely blameless in the dismal display, which prompted captain Will Ferry (standing in for the injured Ross Graham) to label it “horrific” and “embarrassing.” Ferry refused to absolve the players of responsibility, despite Goodwin’s admission of tactical missteps in the gameplan.

However, Goodwin insists no harsh “home truths” or fiery dressing-room confrontations were required to rally the team. “It’s not about home truths for the players,” said Goodwin. “They were just beaten on the night by a better team — and that’s the way this league is. If you don’t perform well, then you get beat. You can see with some of the results that are happening week after week. It doesn’t look like there is going to be any team pulling away; it will be very competitive and there are going to be ups and downs along the way. However, it is important that we get back to basics on Sunday against Hearts and try to win at a very, very difficult venue.”

With United aiming to maintain their push for a top-six finish, Dolček’s potential return could provide a timely boost as they face a Hearts side unbeaten in their last eight Premiership matches and leading the table by three points over Celtic.

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