McCall looks to Latapy

Dundee United FC have signed former Rangers FC midfield player Russell Latapy as they step up their fight to stave off relegation from the Scottish Premier League.

McCall's first signing
The playmaker, who will be formally presented at a press conference today, has become new United manager Ian McCall's first signing at Tannadice after initially spending a few days on trial. Latapy has agreed a deal until the end of the season, when his situation will be reviewed.

Released by Rangers
The 34-year-old Trinidad and Tobago international was released from his Rangers contract in January by manager Alex McLeish, once it became clear that he would play little part in the remainder of their season and his deal would not be renewed in the summer.

Shone for Hibs
Latapy initially lit up the Scottish game after joining Hibernian FC in October 1999 and helping the Edinburgh side win promotion to the top flight. The following season - with Latapy outstanding in midfield - Hibs reached the Scottish Cup Final and also achieved a UEFA Cup place through their league placing before Rangers swooped to sign the player in July 2001.

Fresh challenge
However, after just eight appearances for Rangers this season, Latapy accepted the offer to become a free agent and look for a fresh challenge elsewhere. United will hope Latapy can reproduce the form he showed for Hibs.

Relegation fight
The 1987 UEFA Cup finalists have fallen on hard times and currently languish at the bottom of the table with just 21 points from 28 games. McCall's side are three points behind fellow strugglers Motherwell FC and face the added disadvantage of having played a game more than their Lanarkshire rivals.