Signing Michael is a massive coup.. lots of clubs were after him

Dens gaffer thrilled to see off rivals to land son of old United boss Micky

- NEIL ROBERTSON

TONY DOCHERTY has hailed a "massive" signing coup after Dundee snapped up highly-rated Burnley striker Michael Mellon on loan.

The Scotland Under-21 international had been the January target for sides both north and south of the border after he netted 15 goals in just 27 appearances while farmed out to Morecambe in the first half of the campaign.

But Dee won the race for the prolific frontman with Dens chief Docherty admitting the player's dad, Micky Mellon, who managed city rivals United, played a big part.

He said: "Michael is such a highly sought-after footballer so we're delighted to get him ahead of so many other clubs.

"Michael is a fantastic goalscorer but he's also more than that his link-up play is fantastic, he's quick and his movement is great.

"To be able to get that calibre of player, someone who has scored 15 goals already this season, is a massive coup.

Michael had so many other clubs after him. Our job now is to help develop him.