Mark Ogren has broken his silence after Dundee United were relegated to the Scottish Championship after losing to Motherwell on Sunday.
The Tannadice chairman issued an apology to supporters after Jim Goodwin failed to steer United to survival in the Premiership. With survival looking unlikely even if they won due to their goal difference, United fell behind in the fifth minute at Fir Park through Kevin van Veen's 25th league goal of the season - the Dutchman netting for an 11th successive match.
Things subsequently turned around as a Jamie McGrath penalty and Steven Fletcher effort either side of the interval saw the visitors lead, before Blair Spittal equalised after 69 minutes and Motherwell substitute Max Johnston then headed what proved to be the winner with eight minutes of normal time to go. It was a fifth straight loss for the Tangerines, who Goodwin will now look to restore to the top tier at the first opportunity after signing a deal to become boss on a permanent basis on Saturday.
Ogren wrote on the Dundee United website that he wanted to "reassure" fans the club would do everything to get back to the Premiership at the first time of asking.
He said: "Everyone associated with Dundee United Football Club is hugely disappointed with today’s confirmation of relegation from the cinch Premiership.
"This season started with such hope and excitement, but quite clearly, results and performances have not been good enough throughout the campaign. Mistakes have been made, hard lessons have been learned, and we all take ownership of our accountability. We have let our supporters down.
"The outcome is that we will now play in the cinch Championship next season. While today is a desperately sad occasion for us all, we can now accelerate the work to ensure Dundee United returns to the top league as soon as possible.
"The first act was to secure Jim Goodwin as Manager, and we can now begin the process of recruiting and rebuilding a squad to take on the challenges ahead. I want to reassure supporters, partners, and our staff that I remain fully committed to the club’s continued growth and ensuring its sustainability at the highest level.
"Our fans have been sensational in their continued backing, which is never taken for granted. Your ongoing passion and energy will drive us forward and give us momentum. We will work tirelessly to bring you success, excitement and a return to Premiership football as soon as possible."
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